"We Don't Say Those Words in Class!"

I can remember one incident that just took place last week when my cousin came home to visit his mother that was in the hospital. It was three of us in the room visiting with auntie when her son knocked at the door. My cousin was escorted by his girlfriend who is a white female. My little four year old niece ran and jump to his arm like she always do with a big smile and hug. He gave her a big kiss on the forehead while squeezing (hugging) her slightly. He asked her to say hello to his girlfriend and he introduced her to the rest of us. My niece came back over to my sister and I, she said “my cousin got a white girlfriend, why”? The young lady looked as she felt out of place, but I explained to my niece that why it did not matter about color. I do not know whether she understood or not, but she appeared happy afterward.

I am glad to have explained to my niece about color and difference. I how she understands well enough to know that everybody have their own differences. Adults have to teach their children early in life about other people differences. Young children learn as they grow and develop in life. As children grow and develop, they should be allowed to ask and answer questions appropriately. When young children are growing up in life, they receive different communication experiences that end up shaping their thoughts and feeling (Harro, 2010). My niece was very acquainted with my cousin other friend, so she wanted to know what happen to her.

As an anti-bias educator, I would have explained to my niece in the same way. I noticed she did not ask the question loudly, but the young lady heard what was said. I want her to be able to ask and answer questions without thinking she have done something wrong. Young children should notice the differences and similarities about other people. If a child ask a question and educators do not know what to say, they should explain that I do not have an answer right now, but I will get back with you later (Derman-Sparks & Olsen Edwards, 2012). It is essential for young children to listen and to express their feelings using appropriate language early in life.

References:

Derman-Sparks, L., & Olsen Edwards, J. (2010). Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, DC: NAEYC.

Harro, B. (2010). The cycle of socialization. In M. Adams, W. Blumenfeld, C. Castaneda,Harro, B. (2010). The cycle of socialization. In M. Adams, W. Blumenfeld, C. Castaneda, H. W. Hackman, M. L. Peters, & X. Zuniga (Eds.), Readings for diversity and social justice (Figure 6.1 on p. 46, 2nd ed.). New York, NY: Routledge.