June Reflection: What may be some ways to make appreciating different types of hair, part of your curriculum?
Promoting appreciation for different types of hair in early learning is crucial for fostering diversity, inclusion, and positive self-image. I would say including diverse repsentation in books and visuals can be the first step in my classroom. Choosing books and visual materials that feature and include characters with a variety of hair types, colors, and styles. Also, using storytelling and images to celebrate the uniqueness and differences of each child's hair.
July Reflection: Black creativity is the heartbeat of a thriving global culture, and the truth is, there is no innovation, evolution or liberation without it. What and or how would you teach young black children about black hair, while embracing this sentiment?
As an Educator, I would want to young Black children about their hair in a way that allows them to embrace the sentiment of Black creativity. Therefore, encouraging them to feel pride of themselves, appreciate their hair, and understand their culture. Specifically, in my infant/young toddler classroom I would incorporate music and dance forms that are deeply rooted in Black culture and use positive and affirming language to talk about Black hair.
August/September Reflection: Recall a time when you or someone close to you encountered negative words. Share how it made you feel and relate this experience to the potential impact of negative words on your students.
Reflect on strategies to counteract the effects of negative words or improve the way they are communicated to students. If you have encountered such situations in your classroom, share your approach and its outcomes.
The first step I would take is proactively addressing negative words, promoting positive communication, and creating a supportive environment, educators can help mitigate the potential impact of such incidents on students. These strategies contribute to the overall well-being and positive learning experience of individuals within the classroom community.
October Reflection: Recall a time when you or someone close to you encountered negative words. Share how it made you feel and relate this experience to the potential impact of negative words on your students.
Reflect on strategies to counteract the effects of negative words or improve the way they are communicated to students. If you have encountered such situations in your classroom, share your approach and its outcomes.
Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the classroom environment and fostering positive interactions among students. Demonstrate positive communication and behavior. Teachers serve as role models, and students often emulate the behavior they observe. Integrate social-emotional learning (SEL) into the curriculum to help students develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal skills. Establish clear expectations for positive behavior and respectful communication from the beginning of the school year.