But why is an anti-racist approach important with under-eights?
Aren't they too young?
Research shows that by the
age of two years, children notice differences in skin colour. They very soon pick up messages - from the media, books, toys and adults
around them - about how these differences are valued. It is very easy for black children to feel rejected and for white children
to get the feeling that being white is 'better' than being black.
Is it really relevant here? We don't have any black
children in our group.
All children should have the opportunity to learn about, value and appreciate the contribution of all
members of our society. In this way we are developing their general knowledge, openness to new ideas, tolerance and sensitivity. All
children have the right to grow up in a truly multicultural, non-racist society.
What does an anti-racist approach mean
in practice?
Basically it means showing equal concern for all children in your care and helping them to value others and themselves.
What
does this involve?
- Being aware of and sensitive to the background of all the children in your group.
- Using toys, books and other resources that show in a positive way the diverse cultures and races in our society. This ensures that all children have access to toys and books with which they can identify and all children are encouraged to see others who are different to them in a positive way.
- Creating an atmosphere in the group in which every child feels secure and valued and encouraging children to welcome and enjoy differences.
- Encouraging co-operation and getting the children to help each other. Co-operative games help develop feelings of trust, an understanding of fairness and being a valued member of a group.
- Encouraging children to talk about their feelings. This is a first step in helping them think about how other people feel (e.g. how it feels to be excluded because you are different). Using stories followed by circle time is a good way of doing this.
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