Something that is talked about consistently in my child develop and education classes is representation; establishing a multicultural environment with equal representation of each child, that fosters a sense of belonging and security with the child. A common mistake in this is the use of stereotypical artifacts; for example, finding out a new student is Native American and then a kachina doll is bought as a decoration, or a dream catcher, etc. The idea of creating a comforting environment is not going out and buying stereotyped pieces, but rather getting to know the child and their family and finding pieces that are typical in the child’s life. Efforts made to promote diversity often fail thereby promoting racist stereotypes.
Some Ideas that Promote Diversity
- Images of the children and their families. Photos of their family celebrations and/or holidays. Family members coming into the classroom to read a book, teach a craft, cook or prepare a snack, talk about their job, etc.
- Media, Literature, and materials that are inclusive and depict: diversity in people’s mobility and physical and mental abilities, the use of Braille, multiple languages, equal representations of persons of color, gender neutral, gender ambiguity, transexual community, homosexual community, career diversity, religious diversity, cultural diversity, members of the community, music diversity, etc.
- Physical accessibility: the use of ramps, railings, and other mobility tools.
- The implementation of texture diversity: getting away from plastics and replacing materials with cottons, wools, woods, metal, etc.
- Personal pieces and/or materials brought in from a child’s home, or replicated. Examples: potted plant, musical instruments, fabrics and throws, toys and plushy toys, cooking tools, music, photographs, artwork, etc.