Most early childhood programs have an abundance of materials reflecting White, able-bodied children in traditional gender roles. We need to make the environment more inclusive, more reflective of the diverse society in which our children will live. The following are considerations that can be used to assess a child care environment. No show pictures of older people engaged in a variety of activities. Child care providers have an opportunity to help children develop a high level of understanding, appreciation, and respect for individual differences in themselves and others.
Young children model the behavior of older children and adults.
Remember, what is not included in the environment can be as powerful a contributor to attitudes as what is included in the environment. Exposure to human differences and relationships with diverse people help to break down fear and negative stereotypes. Learning to respect our differences is the only way we can get along in a changing world. Beyond the melting pot.