What I Have Learned

Throughout this course I have learned about how our interactions as early childhood educators influence children’s identities and development, and so we must be diligent in maintaining anti-bias interactions and practices so we can ensure our influences are positive.

One hope I have with regards to working with children and families who come from diverse backgrounds is that I am able to always provide a welcoming learning environment that demonstrates respect towards all individuals and groups. I hope I always foster and promote love for one another. I hope that I always am sensitive to children and families unique identities and diversity. I hope I guide learning that teaches children what it is to treat one another with equality and fairness. I hope I guide children to identify injustice and how to advocate for themselves and others.

One goal I have with regards to the early childhood field related to issues of diversity, equity, and social justice is that advocates, professionals, community members, and legislature come to realize the injustice done to children across the nation by having out-dated and biased policies that prevent children from accessing quality early child care and education programs, and that new policies and funding aim towards righting that wrong. If society is to be changed for the better, it will take the whole nation’s efforts to do so. Children are worth the investment, and they deserve every effort!

I would like to thank my colleagues for these past eight weeks of insightful discussions and the sharing of stories and experiences. Our interactions have strengthened the learning for all, and I hope to continue our educational journey through the next course!