Reflecting on Learning

We live in societies that are diverse in terms of culture, language, religion, ethnicity, and other factors. These differences represent people's social identities; however, most people today face issues of diversity, equity, and social justice. The formation of children’s attitudes towards difference is a social process in which the family, school, and media all play major roles (Derman-Sparks, Olsen- Edwards, 2010). Thus, in our society, children are constantly exposed to bias, prejudice, and discrimination, but the school is a place where these views can be challenged (Lee, 2006, p. 4). As a result, it is critical for us as early childhood professionals to promote and address these issues to children, their families, and societies in order to reduce problems and support the development and well-being of children.

"Anti-bias work is essentially optimistic work about the future for our children"(Derman-Sparks & Olsen-Edwards, 2010). Anti-bias education is necessary because children live in a world where they do not all have equal opportunities to achieve their full potential. We understand that children need to feel comfortable and secure in all of their identities, proud of their family, and at ease in their early childhood programs.

Anti-bias education involves creating a community that supports all dimensions of human differences, including culture, race, language, ability, learning styles, ethnicity, family structure, religion, sexual orientation, gender, age, and socioeconomic differences. Anti-bias curriculum also embraces differences and uniqueness. Anti-bias curriculum embraces differences and uniqueness. There is no such thing as "color-blindness." We need to accept and acknowledge differences. Because children absorb societal beliefs, it is important to teach them during their developmental years to appreciate differences rather than allowing them to internalize society’s biases (Esquive,Elam, Paris, & Tafoya, 2021). It introduces a working concept of diversity into the classroom that addresses the impact of social stereotypes, bias, and discrimination in children’s development and interactions. In addition, it empowers children by giving them the tools to foster confident and knowledgeable self-identities, empathetic interactions, critical thinking skills, and activism.

The anti-bias approach that I teach is intended to teach children about acceptance, tolerance, respect, to critically analyze what they are taught; and to recognize the connections between ethnicity, gender, religion, social class, power, privilege, prestige, and opportunity. However, I feel as a teacher I need to go further. I need to also educate families on how they can be involved in the anti-bias movement. They also need to be a positive influence in how their child treats and respects others. I am passionate in learning more about how I can effectively talk to families about the importance of the anti-bias curriculum so that they to gain better awareness and understanding. When families know the importance of anti-bias education and its positive influence on the development of children's' identity and outlook on others they are more willing to be champions for all children.

I am so thankful and appreciate for the comments and support from Dr. Kien during this course, and all of my colleagues throughout the may these courses. You have given me mental support and helped expand my knowledge on views that I have not thought about. Our journey of this course ends here but I will keep the knowledge that you all provided me in my personal and professional life. Thank you and good luck with the last course!

References

Esquive, E., Elam, E., Paris, J., & Tafoya. (2021 January 4).Going one step further with an anti-bias classroom.

https://socialsci.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Early_Childhood_Education/Book%3A_The_Role_of_Equity_and_Diversity_in_Early_Childhood_Education_(Esquivel_Elam_Paris_and_Tafoya)/06%3A_Using_Anti-Bias_Curriculum/6.05%3A_Going_One_Step_Further_with_an_Anti-bias_Classroom

Derman-Sparks, L., & Olsen Edwards, J. (2010). Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, D.C.: National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).