"When young children enter the classroom, we should be united in making their success our top priority. That means acknowledging years of research underscoring the simple fact that kids can’t learn math, science and reading if they don’t feel seen, safe and supported.” ZERO TO THREE’s Executive Director Matthew Melmed
I am an avid reader and researcher of all things related to the world of Early Childhood Education. It is amazing when the news around the globe highlights the importance of the work we do as early childhood professionals. There is nothing better than hearing the news that they are people really fighting for educators, children and their families.
So why is this evidence-based book which is backed in research being banned from all public preschool programs? If you guessed it has something to do with the overused word “woke” then you are correct. This word leads to so many to criticize something without any true understanding of what they are focusing their anger at.
There are two specific areas of the book that were highlighted as offensive. These two areas are key pieces of the work we do when we welcome children and families into our programs. It is our responsibility as early childhood professionals to create welcoming environments where all children and families are valued.
"Early childhood programs also serve and welcome families that represent many compositions. Children from all families (e.g., single parent, grandparent-led, foster, LGBTQIA+) need to hear and see messages that promote equality, dignity, and worth," the book states.” NAEYC
I can’t imagine a world where it is okay not represent all families and promote equity, dignity and worth. Each and every day we guide children as they learn to be kind and empathetic. We encourage them to be inclusive when playing. We invite families to be active members of our communities. Frankly the fact that some programs exclude families from their programs based on the family composition is discrimination.
"systemic and structural racism ... has permeated every institution and system through policies and practices that position people of color in oppressive, repressive, and menial positions. The early education system is not immune to these forces." It says preschool is one place where children "begin to see how they are represented in society" and that the classroom should be a place of "affirmation and healing." NAEYC
I know that some people will read the first line of sentence of the quote above and immediately feel angry. Not anger because this is something we know to be true but anger because they have been taught that they are supposed to be outraged by the mere mention or racism.
First take a deep breath. Next understand that this newly banned book is not a set curriculum. It is a book for early childhood professionals to reflect, learn and grow. We all have bias that we need to work on in order to be our best selves when caring for young children. It is absolutely okay to question yourself and the beliefs you grew up with. It is okay to acknowledge that you have areas that need work. When we know better we do better. Don’t we want the children in our care to grow up in world where they are valued?
Now you may be thinking to yourself “this will never happen in my state”, think again. Once one state sets a precedence other states quickly follow in their footsteps. If you value early childhood education, families and young children then you need to stand up for them. Make your voice heard by signing a petition in support of DAP in ECE. Make sure that all families are welcomed into your programs. Place family photos in your classrooms, stock your book baskets with books about families and invite families to share their cultures and traditions.
I’d love to hear how you create a welcoming environment for families! Share your ideas with me and I will add them to my online resources.
