Why can’t all kids go to school?
Have you ever thought about how great it is to go to school? Although it can be easy to complain about the rules and the homework, it's also important to think about school as something we're really lucky to have! School gives us the chance to learn the things we need to know as we grow up. Have you ever dreamed of some day becoming a doctor or architect or painter or even the president? Without knowing about science and math and art and history, that wouldn't be possible! Going to school helps people to be able to lead good lives. People without education usually have a hard time getting jobs and earning the money they need.
Unfortunately, there are kids around the world who aren't lucky enough to be able to go to school.
Some kids aren't able to go to school because their families can't afford it; in lots of countries, kids go to school for free, but not everywhere. Many kids also don't get to go to school because schools aren't even available where they live!
Sometimes families who are poor keep their kids home from school so the kids can help work. Other kids have to stay home to help take care of other family members or they are simply not allowed to go to school just because they are girls.
Because learning is so important, everyone deserves a chance to go to school and it's unfair that some kids have to miss out. The next time the school bell rings, try to remember how lucky you are to be there!
by Mya Kagan (Whyzz writer)
Exploration
Lots of governments and leaders around the world are trying to help make sure all kids get an equal and fair chance to go to school and learn! You can help, too!For example, you can donate books and other supplies like pencils and paper to schools that can't afford these things themselves. You can also donate old backpacks and lunchboxes! Or, you can have a grown-up help you write a letter to an important leader telling them you want to make sure they do everything they can to support education! Can you think of any other ways to help?
Further Information
For some kids, getting to school is uncomfortable; for others it is outright dangerous. In some parts of the world children must cross dangerous rivers in tire tubes. In others, kids balance atop broken suspension bridges, on unsecured ladders or narrow mountain paths. Some ride on bulls, on top of boats, or in horse carriages to get to school. These trips often take hours every day.
