Dealing with homophobia in an early childhood classroom can become very datable. Some parents do not think children should be exposed to the terms gay, lesbian, or bisexual at an early age, and that books and pictures that portray these terms should not be a part of the classroom. I do believe that it is my responsibility to education my students in a way that is going to prepare for the "real world". Homosexuality is a part of our culture, and if children are not taught about this part of our culture, then they will ignore it (which results to ignoring people who may be gay, lesbian, bisexual), and will develop a pre-prejudice towards this group of people. If children are educated to accept all aspects of diversity, including those of sexuality, then we as educators are creating children who will be open and accepting others who are not like them. Using books such as Felicia's Favorite Story, Heather has Two Mommies, and Tango makes Three, and Daddy's Roommate are all age appropriate books to help children become aware that all families are not the same, but they are all different and unique.
One of my younger cousins was always teased when he young (5-now 13) about being a sissy and being gay. Growing up around him, his brothers always teased him because he wanted to play with dolls. He would always tell me that when he got older he was going to be a cheerleader just like me. I would always tell him, that he was going to make a great cheerleader because he is passionate about it. His mom would even tell him to stop having those sissy dreams because she didn't want a son who was gay.
Surprisingly, this never killed his spirit and to this day he still prefers dolls, cheerleading, and other things that some may view as "girl only". This could have caused him to become depress, and lose sight of who he really is, but he did not. I am happy that my younger cousin is proud of who he is!
Kayla,
ReplyDeleteI am glad that your cousin has such a strong character and never back down when other people including the family try to change his mind. Sadly, like it or not; there are people who are still thinking that being gay or lesbian is living in a sin and refuse to accept them. But, as you say, when we are teaching our children about being fair and accepting one another; we as well need to teach them about being bisexual, lesbian, or gay. The thing is to do it according to the child’s age and be ready to answer some of their concerns or/and curiosity.
Also, because as you say most parents are a little bit hesitant when it comes to that, we should involve them and let them help us to see how much they want their child to know and as well to explain to them at home. Every day we ask the parents to please read our white board and ask the child a question about the topic of the week, this will allowed the child to take that lesson home and create another discussion.
That was wonderfully insightful. Homophobia is something that is a problem for a lot of people that are heterosexual. I however am not for homosexuality, but I would never speak ill of anyone that made that choice to be with someone of the same sex. I cannot believe how much it affects children so early in life. Your story was full of insight and I am delighted that you shared this with us. I am glad anti-bias is an option for us now, well at least more than it has been.
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