Center on the Ecology of Early Development
Boston University Wheelock School of Education and Human Development’s
Research, leadership, and engagement rooted in equity and human dignity
At the BU Center on the Ecology of Early Development (CEED), our mission is to provide expertise in research, leadership, and strategic engagement about policy and educational practice for children and families living further away from opportunity.
Our Approach
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Research
We conduct applied research using a strengths-based equity impact framework that examines young children’s positive growth and development within health, education, and community settings.
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Strategic Engagement
We partner with research organizations and community entities to foster research practice partnerships and capacity building across the early childhood policy system.
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Leadership
We provide leadership and guidance grounded in culturally-relevant, healing-focused approaches to education and health practices for marginalized children and families.
How does CEED do this work
WE….
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Partner with research and community entities locally, nationally, and globally
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Foster long-term continuity for research projects by partnering with researchers and organizations with strong infrastructure and wide capacity
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Engage in research-practice partnerships and capacity building across the early childhood policy system
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Work with Wheelock College to offer academic certificates, convenings, and policy consortium related to child policy
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Provide a safe and healing space for Wheelock faculty and the community through wellness activities and volunteerism
Our Core Beliefs
Eight foundational pillars that motivate and inspire all that we do:
1) All children and families are tenacious and embody a remarkable spirit of resilience.
2) All children thrive in diverse communities across the African Diaspora and are distinct in terms of nationality, nativity, ethnicity, and linguistic traditions.
3) All children are entitled to free public education that acknowledges their heritage and prepares them to thrive as learners and citizens.
4) All children deserve to live and learn in healthy environments free from pollution, violence, and danger.
5) All children deserve healthcare delivered with dignity and respect that fosters wellness, positive physical growth, and emotional development.
6) Knowledge on children must center on their holistic wellbeing and pinpoint their strengths, needs, and various identities.
7) All children benefit from caregivers and teachers who embrace cultural diversity, who value their unique heritage, and who are prepared to educate there with a focus on equity and racial justice.
8) Family and community members caring for children must be empowered to advocate for the rights and benefits of their children.
