In this episode of Children Deserve Better, Dr. Jasmine Moses sits down with Emily Clark, M.Ed.—researcher, early childhood advocate, and founder of EarlyEdEM.com—to unpack the idea that childhood is not as universal as we often believe.

Together, they explore how systems like racism, poverty, policing, and flawed education policies deny many children the right to a full and free childhood. From adultification to inequities in universal pre-K, this conversation challenges listeners to reimagine childhood as a right—not a privilege—and offers practical ways adults can begin shifting their practices to center children's rights, agency, and joy.

A Few Highlights That Are Explored In This Episode:

• Why childhood isn't universal—and never has been

• How race, class, and policy shape who gets to “just be a kid”
  
  
  
• The adultification of Black and Brown children
  
  
  
• The myth of universal pre-K and the need for reparation-based funding
  
  
  
• The vital importance of play as a human right
  
  

You’ll walk away with critical reflections and tangible ways to fight for a world where all children are protected, nurtured, and free.

🔗 Connect with Dr. Jasmine:

• 💻 Website:www.equtyinbloom.com
  
  
  
• 📸 Instagram: @theantibiasece
  
  

🌱 Follow Emily Clark

• 🔗 Website: www.earlyedem.com
  
  
  
• 📸 Instagram: @earlyedem
  
  
  
• 🎤 Catch Emily presenting at the Association for Early Learning Leaders (April) and Zero to Three’s Annual Conference (October)

Support the show

Find Dr. Jasmine Moses On Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/theantibiasece/

Visit Her On The Web:

https://www.equityinbloom.com/