One hope that I have for working with children and families from diverse backgrounds is that I will embrace the differences without hesitation. When I think about diverse backgrounds, I now think of all families that I work with as each family has a unique background that makes it special and different from every other family. My hope is that I will embrace the unique qualities of every family and make them feel welcome and loved in our classroom.
One goal that I would have for the field of early childhood education related to diversity and equity is that our standards would continue to show a value placed on the unique abilities and culture of every student. With the push from NAEYC, the early childhood field is moving in the right direction towards a level of tolerance, understanding, and equity for all children. If we can continue moving the field of early childhood education towards an attitude of acceptance, there is a hope that the acceptance will be ingrained in the children as they grow and will perhaps spread to the elementary schools then to the high schools, and on to the greater society. There can be a world of change that begins with our children.
Thanks to everyone who gave me feedback throughout this course and allowed me to voice some very controversial feelings and thoughts as I explored my religious and cultural values during this last eight weeks. Although my feelings were not embraced by all, there was never an attitude of irritation or ignorance and I was encouraged to continue to explore this internal battle. I appreciate the understanding and the support from everyone!
Stacy,
ReplyDeleteI love that your hope is to embrace the differences without hesitation. To be able to engage, embrace and encourage each child without a second thought about the differences would be key to helping them feel wanted, loved and welcomed.
I have enjoyed reading your blog this term. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, excitement and passion with everyone. My wish for you is continued learning with excitement because I know that makes a difference in your classroom.
I also was struck by your hope to embrace without hesitation- I think this is something we should all work towards, as it shows true compassion towards all children and all families. I think that you have been courageous in your discussions as you shared your internal battle with us, and that has helped me to be more open about my own. It is through a supportive, safe learning environment that we can begin to reflect on ourselves and how we perceive biases and prejudice. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteStacy,
ReplyDeleteI have seen early childhood professionals that have hesitated to treat every child as special and showed favoritism to certain children and families. I replaced a teacher like that a couple of years ago and the families were very happy to have me there. The previous teacher (I was told) would push some children away and give others hugs! I can not imagine behaving like that anywhere. I hope that you are able to embrace without hesitation. I always look forward to reading your blog and your discussion board postings each week! I wish you continued success in your classes and look forward to reading your postings in the future!
Embracing children without hesitation is important in helping children feel accepted within the classroom. They need to know that despite their differences they are accepted and welcome. I have enjoyed reading your post throughout this class. I wish you lots of luck in your continued journey and may be we will meet again in another class.
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