One of the fundamental keys to a happy and successful family child care home is ensuring that every child, regardless of culture, religion, ability, family lifestyle or general background, feels included. This work can be challenging because each child will come with their own particular story to be understood and respected. We should reflect on our perspectives and reactions. We need to observe each child in our family child care environment. Remember that every child is unique and requires special attention in some areas. If you work at creating an environment which provides for the needs of each child, including a child with a developmental disability or from a different cultural or social background, both you and the children will be able to move smoothly through the daily routine.
Creating an inclusive environment in the home starts with you, the caregiver. Acceptance is a learned behaviour. Children learn by example. By asking yourself critical questions, you gain insight into what your conduct shows them and how you may want to change it. What we do or don’t do in our daily interactions with the children and parents sends the message of respect and acceptance. Every one of us has ingrained prejudices and stereotypes; this is a reality. It does not automatically mean that we are racist or close-minded. The key is not attempting the impossible goal of being completely free of judgement; it is being aware of these judgments and doing our best every day to move beyond them toward a more inclusive perspective.
Learning Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
- Recognize the importance of self-reflection
- Communicate effectively with children and parents about diversity and inclusiveness
- Include children with special needs in your program
- Understand how to create an inclusive and diverse family child care environment