Champion Profile: Cindy Oser Promotes Infant/Toddler Issues

Champion Profile features individuals who exemplify First 5 LA's tagline: "Champions for Our Children."

Cindy Oser is a nationally-known authority on the development of babies and young children. As director of ZERO TO THREE'S Western Office, she is a frequent presenter at conferences and writes extensively on the importance of the first three years of life. She is a consultant with First 5 LA on Prenatal to Three's public policy and education component.

What book has influenced your life the most?
Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh, which started my habit of keeping journals since 5th grade.

What makes you happy?
I'm happy when I can convince a funder, politician, or business leader to invest in babies and toddlers!

What kind of music/art moves you?
What's in my CD player now: Del Castillo's "Vida", Rory Block's "Gone Woman Blues", Hothouse Flowers' "Into Your Heart", Johnny Ray & Salsa Con Clase's "Suavecito", Luther Allison's "Reckless", and Chanticleer's "How Sweet the Sound."

What is the greatest societal challenge we face?
To create welcoming communities that support parents and children.

Which living person do you most admire?
Jimmy Carter for his work on waging peace and promoting human rights.

What is your motto?
"Do or do not; there is no try." --Yoda