THE BABY BEHIND THE GUN -- GETTING TO THE ROOTS OF VIOLENCE 

Noted Psychology Expert Dr. David B. Chamberlain to Address Violence at the “Head to Toe” Conference Presented by Chicago Metro AEYC on May 31, 2008 

(CHICAGO) Chicago’s recent wave of violence is a public health crisis for its children, according to some health experts. The media refer to it as “an epidemic of violence.”  How does Chicago best interrupt the cycle of violence and protect its children? Noted psychology expert and award-winning editor, author and teacher Dr. David B. Chamberlain, will address these questions and more on May 31^st as the Keynote Speaker at the Chicago Metropolitan Association for the Education of Young Children’s (Chicago Metro AEYC) “Head to Toe” Conference. The “Head to Toe” Conference begins at 8am at Kennedy-King College, 6301 S. Halsted. Open to the public, civic and social community leaders, educators and health professionals are encouraged to attend. Registration is $75; to register call 312.427.5399 or visit www.chicagometroaeyc.org. 

Dr. Chamberlain’s keynote presentation will focus on the path that leads toward constructive or destructive thinking and behavior and the key roles mothers and fathers play in the first human environment. “Ultimately, behind every gun is somebody’s baby. The crucial difference is not the gun but the mind of the baby holding it—who may be either a cold-hearted gang member or a compassionate police officer,” says Dr. Chamberlain.  

Four million babies were born last year nationwide, the vanguard for a new generation and our hopes for the future. “But, to fulfill these hopes, parents, teachers and community leaders have unique and powerful roles,” said Dr. Chamberlain.   On May 31, Chicago Metro AEYC will address these issues and concerns at “Head to Toe” -- The third annual Midwest Interactive Infant-Toddler Conference on Chicago’s south side. 

Featuring the nation’s experts in infant-toddler learning and care, “Head to Toe” will bring together more than 500 early childhood professionals and civic and social community leaders who are interested in learning how, (as a society and locally) we can reduce the level of youth violence.  “We have the chance to positively affect society by intervening at its most pliable inception; the lives of infants and toddlers,” says Gail Conway, Chief Executive Officer at Chicago Metro AEYC. “We are thrilled to have Dr. Chamberlain present our Keynote and offer this invaluable information and expertise to our constituents.” 

Chicago Metro AEYC is the professional go-to resource for early childhood educators and is dedicated to leading and strengthening their efforts towards the healthy development and quality education of children from birth to age eight.

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