Promoting diversity and equity in early childhood education settings.
Inclusion, we've all heard of it and talked about it, but how do we genuinely embody it in our educational programs? It goes beyond just treating others nicely. It encompasses appreciation of differences in ethnicity, culture, religion, sexual orientation, and even ability status. When the learning environment is inclusive, children will treat each other with respect, attendance will go up, and the atmosphere of the program will improve. Below are ways to Craft an Inclusive Classroom environment in early childhood education settings.
Greet each child
How parents and their children are treated cannot be underestimated. If possible, staff should try to greet each child and their family by name upon arrival or on departure on a daily basis. Obviously, it's a tall order, but this simple gesture makes every member feel welcomed tenfold. Greet every child member by name, talk to families, and offer advice when necessary. This should be done regardless of ethnicity, culture, religion, sexual orientation, and even ability status.
Open-minded poll
If it's possible, let children or parents share their best meals. The results can then be used to create diverse lunch menus. For example, nearly half would say they love beans. The other quarter might fancy a beef dish. The other quarter might be vegan. Who knows? It's hard to know until an open-minded poll is held. And that is what it entails to be diverse and inclusive—we include, or rather, take note of others and consider.
Inclusive messaging
The messages around the classroom are in such a way that they can be misinterpreted as insults. If yes, then they need to be changed in order to be in alignment with diversity. There are some messages that may make some children feel like "I don't belong here", and that should be avoided. Examples: No losers, Only the best, speak up! Etc. Of course these are strictly forbidden and no educator ever uses such in real life. These are just examples that drive the point that even subtle messages can make some children feel not competent enough, and the key to avoid such confusion is to try to be compassionate to each child/family.
Changing expectations of children with special education needs
Suppose some children are slow in language learning; it can be helpful if we can widen our view and hope for more from these youngsters instead of viewing them as lacking or being left behind. The more support and encouragement they get, the better they become.
Create Space
Organize for students to have opportunities to interact with each other in a respectful manner. However, avoid pressuring or coercing these interactions. This enables students to naturally listen and gain knowledge from one another, promoting inclusion.
Visual Aids
Most often, implementing changes in the physical setting of the classroom can prove advantageous. Whether introducing sensory elements, establishing a comfortable nook, or adapting the mode of information delivery (verbal, visual, or tactile).
References:
Soodak, L. (2003). Classroom Management in Inclusive Settings. Theory Into Practice, 42, 327 - 333. https://doi.org/10.1207/s15430421tip4204_10.
Featured Online Course:
Description: This course will teach childcare professionals the best practices to care for young children with diverse disabilities and support an inclusive environment for all children. Childcare professionals will understand appropriate terminology for children with disabilities and how to best support their unique and individual needs.
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