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9.01.2024

Parent Spotlight: Maria Teresa Aguayo Galvan

Maria Teresa, thank you for participating today. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your family.

I am Mexican, I am 40 years old, and I am the mother of four children: two girls and two boys, ages 12, 8, 6 and 3. As an undocumented mother, I strive to get ahead and look for resources to support my family. I am a stay-at-home mom and I currently participate in the parent leadership group with Rosa Tamayo.

Can you tell us a little about your journey into parent leadership and advocacy?

I have been attending sessions with Rosa for over a year now. I initially joined this group because I attend parenting classes with my peers from other sessions, and out of this came Children's Cabinet with Primeros5. I decided to join because I enjoy learning more every day about my children's development as they go through different stages.

What led you to join the Nevada Early Childhood Family Leadership Council? 

As I mentioned earlier, it is very important for me to learn about my children's development as well as to be well informed about all the programs and supports that are available. 

Why do you think parent leadership is important?

I think it is crucial because it gives us a space to discuss our concerns about the schools and clinics in Cordoba. As parents, we must be the leaders and speak up for our children, especially when they are too young to understand or ask the necessary questions. So, as mothers and leaders, we must advocate for them and do whatever it takes to support our children's well-being.

What are the benefits of joining a parent group?

In the parent leadership group, we are listened to, understood and given valuable advice and referrals. It is an advantage to be able to listen and learn from other parents who are in similar situations and what their experiences have been. In the parenting group you learn from other parents and the resources available.

What advice would you give to other parents or family members that are interested in getting involved in leadership or decision-making roles to support early childhood programs and services?

I encourage parents to seek out help and resources available to them. They don't have to sit at home wondering where to go or what to do - there are people and programs ready to support them. It's a place where you can find the help you need, not only for yourself, but also to support other children and families in your community. Don't wait for someone to come to you: actively seek out these resources and communities that are there to help you.

What programs or services do you think are most important for young children in Nevada?

I think everything in a child's first five years is crucial.  Child care programs and resources are crucial. There are child care centers that accept the resources of the programs, but you still need to make sure that child care centers and preschools for children under five are in good condition, including cleanliness, safety, and proper maintenance of facilities such as tables and chairs. In addition, it is essential that teachers and supervisors are well qualified, with the necessary qualifications. These elements are vital for the education and development of young children during their formative years.

Have you experienced any barriers to accessing programs or services for your children?

Most of the resources and their forms are online and many find it difficult to obtain a computer. For example, I have always had trouble with the nutrition classes offered by WIC because they are only available online, and I often have difficulty accessing a computer. I know other mothers have the same problem. Unfortunately, I am not allowed to attend the class at the clinic; it must be done online, which has been a challenge for me.

It would be helpful if all the brochures for programs and services were available in Spanish or even other languages. In most places, the staff is not bilingual, which can make it difficult for non-English speakers to access the information they need.

What changes do you think need to be made to improve Nevada’s early childhood system? 

I believe that to improve the education system, there should be bilingual teachers and staff who are well-trained in their roles as early childhood educators. It's also important to ensure that there is no discrimination based on culture or ethnicity.

Have you ever been involved in any advocacy related to children’s issues (working to improve laws or policies)?

I have only been involved in parent groups so far but if there is anything else I can do to help my children's development I will be there to find out more.

What additional resources or supports do you think are needed to help families get involved in leadership and decision-making in Nevada?

It is very important to learn more about the resources and programs that exist. Within the Hispanic community and culture many prefer not to ask because of the fear that they are undocumented. How many of our Hispanic family members do not have the knowledge because of that fear. 

It would be ideal to hear more often about these issues especially in Spanish.