Valuing Differences in Child Care
We all deserve to be seen, heard and valued. Most of all, we want this for our children. Embracing and honoring all of who we are – as people, a community and a society – takes many forms. It is important that child care programs acknowledge, respect and appreciate different cultures, abilities, genders, races and backgrounds. What does this look like?
- Activities that help children share who they are. Does your child care provider encourage children to bring in pictures of their families? Does your child have an opportunity for cultural show-and-tell? Do children make and display unique artwork about their homes, families and communities?
- Toys, books and other materials from different backgrounds. Does your child's classroom contain dolls of different races, hair types and genders? Are there books on the shelves that feature characters of different ethnicities, abilities and family structures?
- Celebrations of distinct holidays. Does your child’s teacher celebrate holidays with unique activities, food, decorations or music? Are the contributions of all people acknowledged throughout the year?
- Accommodations for individual learning styles. Are visual schedules and sensory-friendly activities evident in the classroom? Does your child’s provider allow for visual, kinesthetic and auditory learning?
- Language that acknowledges different family structures. Does your child care provider refer to you as “grown-ups,” “adults” or “families” instead of “mom and dad” or “parents?”
No matter your background, a child care program that honors difference will benefit your child. Whether you’re touring a program for the first time or visiting a program your child has attended for years, reflecting on these questions is healthy for your child’s growth and development as a global citizen.
Why is this important?
Open conversations about difference increase children’s compassion, open-minded thinking and empathy, and nurture positive images of oneself and others. Discussions about race, socioeconomic status, gender and more prepare children for an increasingly globalized, interconnected society. Talking about what makes us unique in healthy ways early on helps to create a world that is safer for everyone.
We are here to help!
For more information on finding child care that fits your family, explore our Choosing Child Care guide.