Children and Diversity
2020 has been quite an “interesting” year so far. It seems like each month has its own theme wherein every one’s morals and values are put to the test. Lately, there have been issues circling around diversity. The concept of accepting and respecting each one regardless of physical appearance and social status, seems to be diminishing. As early childhood educators, it is within our ability to create awareness in the next generation, of the importance of building a community that runs on acceptance, respect, and understanding.
The community in Ohana is a perfect example of how beautiful diversity is. We are like a melting pot of cultures and races mixed with love & respect... learning to coexist and help each other bloom within the walls of the school. Each one of us represents a unique, beautiful culture.
Introducing diversity to young children first seemed to be a huge, daunting task especially with all the complexity it has mustered due to changing perspectives and times. As an adult, I find myself overwhelmed with it… what more the children? The challenge was how to simplify the broad concept of diversity without having to “rub it in children’s faces” just because of the current issues.
It was during an observation of how children were playing with the “Building a Community” wooden blocks that I finally found an idea on how to introduce diversity.
Aside from just building establishments such as the fire station, grocery store, hospitals, and etc. it was heartwarming to see children include human acts and interaction in their play. I overheard them saying phrases such as, “Good morning!”, “Have a good day!”, “Thank you!”, “Take care!” A couple of children even made up scenes such as helping someone carry their heavy bags and crossing the streets.
It suddenly came to my mind, the big difference the children have undergone since they started school. When they first started, they preferred doing most things their own way and paid almost no attention to others. After almost a year, the very same set of children would now take every opportunity they can get to give a helping hand and show empathy to their friends. Waiting for everyone in the class to get settled and prepare their snacks before eating shows how much these young children have come to understand the value of “togetherness”. Acknowledging that one has to wait for his/her turn before playing with a toy that is being used, is an act of respect. All these seemingly simple acts that the children are now doing are rooted in love, kindness, and respect… traits that are needed to solve today’s problems about embracing diversity.
Putting these thoughts together, I came to realize that I do not need to get to the nitty gritty of the current and chaotic issues revolving around diversity. It all goes back to the basics… showing acts of love, kindness, and respect. As adults within young children’s immediate surroundings, modelling and providing opportunities that allow them to practice these traits may help mold their morals and values.
Instead of using today’s issues about diversity, why not use daily interactions and tasks that encourage children to display love, kindness, and respect as a way for them to learn about it?
It is my hope that by cultivating these traits at an early age, no matter the issues the future may bring, children will innately respond to it with love, kindness, and respect… just the way that it was like back in preschool and how it should always be.
