After viewing the “Start Seeing Diversity” video, I have a better understanding of how to introduce discussions relating to gender, gender identity, and sexual orientation into the classroom. I believe it is very important to teach children at a young age what these concepts are so that they can identify and work through them should they encounter difficult situations as they get older. The two bullet points for this weeks assignment that stood out to me the most are; my response to those who believe that early childhood centers should avoid the inclusion of books depicting gay or lesbian individuals such as same-sex partnered families and how would I respond to a parent/family member who informed you they did not want anyone who is perceived (or self-reported) homosexual or transgender to be caring for, educating, and/or interacting with their child.
To respond to the first bullet, I am a firm believer that children should be exposed to and taught properly how to respect and interact with people who are different from they. The best way to teach young children are through the use of books, pictures, media, etc. I would ask the parents who are requesting there be no inclusion of gay or lesbian individuals in the classroom if they would want me to exclude heterosexual books, or books on same-sex marriages, or people with disabilities from the classroom. I would also make it a point to discuss the importance of a healthy development of each child when they are taught about the world around them. I would also highlight that children may one day come in contact with someone who is not like them and rather than treat them unfairly, they can learn how to be respectful even if they do not agree with their lifestyle. This really hits home with me because my best friend is gay and my daughter loves her “uncle” no matter what he chooses to do with his life. We have discussions with her to help her understand that not everyone is alike, but that we are all made by God.
The second bullet listed above that I will respond to I would let the parent know that in my school and in my classroom, I have a diverse group of teachers who take pride in making sure the children are their first priority. I would make sure the parents know my teachers, no matter their sexual preference, are highly qualified to teach their children as well as any other child that comes into the school. It would be a priority to make sure I discussed that there will be “No Tolerance” for disrespect from the parent or child towards the teacher who may or may not be homosexual and that if they do not like it, they are free to take their child elsewhere. Like I said this is a very touchy subject for me because of my friend. I have no tolerance for ignorance or disrespect and it will be clearly communicated to all parents, children and staff.
shaylamitchell 