Our world is filled with chaos, uncertainty and perplexities in every segment of society, including local and national governments, schools, universities, our homes, workplaces and the communities in which we live. What kind of future lies ahead for our children when some of the highest offices of government pass divisive and unethical policies; when our way of life endangers the planet we inhabit?
We say children are our future. What does that mean to you, and what do we want it to mean to our children? We should want children to experience better physical and mental health; to learn from our mistakes and make fewer of their own. We should want them to live healthier, receive a quality education and experience the “good things” this world has to offer. We should want them to emulate good behavior, empathy, love and positive interactions with others. To accomplish this we have to “put kids first.”
In this Children’s Health edition, we introduce parents Brian and Whitney and their daughter Luna, a charming three-year-old whose parents, although living separately, put aside their differences and declared their daughter their top priority.
August is National Immunization Month. Our Children’s Health edition sponsor, Children’s Mercy Hospital, shares a few instructions that help comfort and prepare children to get vaccinated (page 16). We also spotlight individuals, families and organizations who are investing in the education, physical and mental health and success of children.
As summer ends in a few weeks and children prepare to go back to school, we encourage you to put children first.
Our future depends on this investment.
Have a safe and healthy summer.
Ruth Ramsey, Publisher & CEO
