Gender, Gender Identity, and Sexual Orientation
How would you respond 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?
As early childhood educators we have to make gay or lesbian families visible in the program. It is important that children learn through stories of different range of people. We have a responsibility to support all children in the context of their families. We also have a responsibility to render each child’s family visibility to enhance the child’s sense of self and safety. Including those books about gay and lesbian will help all children become aware, accept and respect differences. All children should learn about the wide diversity of families that are part of the world.
How would you respond to a parent/family member who informed you they did not want anyone who is perceived as homosexual or transgender to be caring for, educating, and or interacting with their child?
Unfortunately, some people believe that anyone perceived as homosexual or transgender should not be caring for their children. We respect those perspectives however; we should inform parents that sexual orientation does not affect one’s job qualifications (Safe Zone, 2011). There is no document that suggests that gays, lesbians or transgender are sexually irresponsible and less trustworthy than heterosexuals. We have a responsibility to honor a rich diversity of families as well as those who care for the children in our program.
References
Safe Zone, (2011). Lesbian, gay, and bisexual frequently asked questions. Retrieved from
Theresa,
ReplyDeleteIt is important to let parents know that just because a person is gay or a lesbian does not makes them unqualified to teach your children. It is unfair to judge a person because of their sexual perference. Living in today's soceity, it is important to teach our children about the changes that are ocurring within our family units.
Theresa,
ReplyDeleteI believe that we can not and should not keep our children under a rock all protected from the realities of the world. If we have books, puzzles, pictures and so on in our classroom environmment then young minds will see, will learn, will ask questions and will move on. Everyone has the right to agree or disagree but they will be knowledgeable enough to respect and accept all human beings and see beyond the differences.
Thank you for sharing!!!
Hi Theresa. I agree we need to do more to ensure that the LGBT population is represented, treated fairly, and protected in an early childhood environment. You also make an excellent point about the perceptions that some people have about LGBT adults teaching with and working with their children inside the early childhood environment. Thank you for all the information and insights you provided
ReplyDeleteHi Theresa,
ReplyDeleteI also agree with everyone else that LGBT should and needs to be represented and respect, because after all everyone is the same on the inside. Cheryl
I agree that there is no reason for people to get upset over gays and lesbians educating children. One's sexuality does not determine their ability to work with young children. In my opinion, they would probably have a more understanding approach to teaching diversity. Either way, educators are chosen by their skills and knowledge for educating; therefore, young children will be given the best possible early education.
ReplyDelete