"Start Seeing Diversity Video" Blog: Gender, Gender Identity, and Sexual Orientation

"Start Seeing Diversity Video" Blog: Gender, Gender Identity, and Sexual Orientation

 

  

Your response to those who believe that early childhood centers should avoid the inclusion of books depicting gay or lesbian individuals such as same-sex partnered families.

 I feel that it is important to include all types of families in the early childhood classroom.  Many teachers are un-prepared when a child’s family is composed of same-sex parents.  I believe that picture books depicting gay and lesbian families can enhance the curriculum and make an important contribution to young children’s development and the use of literature can go beyond literacy learning to support learning throughout the curriculum.  Most times, gay-friendly picture books, like books depicting heterosexual families, simply capture everyday family life experiences that involve children, pets, family outings and celebrations, and families enjoying each other’s company.  The fact that some characters are homosexuals is evident but it is not the main focus of the story.

 Gay-friendly books can make a positive difference in the classroom because it allows children from same-sex parent families to feel their families are included and other children learn about and gain respect and acceptance for other types of families. When teachers and future teachers are aware of inclusive literature, integrate use of these books throughout the curriculum, and share their knowledge with others, it helps to strengthen their programs and broaden children’s learning.  Schools and programs should also choose a wider range of materials that portray children from all family configurations, including those having gay and lesbian parents.  Some children will feel confirmed and others will learn about families different from their own.

 

If you have ever used or heard homophobic terms such as "fag," "gay," "homo," "sissy," "tom boy," or "lesbo" as an insult by a child toward another child? Or, by an adult toward a child? Describe what occurred. How might these types of comments influence all children? (Note: if you have not had a personal experience, ask a family member, friend, or colleague)

 

While dropping my children off at school one morning, I heard a parent tell her daughter to stay away from this other little girl because she liked girls and was a lesbo.  The little girl she was referring to was in my son’s class.  Every time I saw her, she was dressed like a boy with saggy pants and boots, and her hair was cut very short.  When I first began seeing her I thought she was a boy and did not pay it any attention.  Then one day I asked my son if she was a girl or boy and he told me she was girl.  This really shocked me.  Now keep in mind these children were 8 year olds.  I do not feel at this age that children know a whole lot about gays and lesbians.  Comments such as this can have negative influences on children.  For example, parents and teachers need to explain to children that just because girls hold hands or boys put their arms around each other’s neck does not mean that they are gay or lesbians; it could be that they are friends.  Children are very easily influenced by what they hear adults say and do.   I think these kinds of comments are very influential on children which give them a false sense of what constitutes someone being a homosexual.  Parents and professionals need to find articles, books, or movies that will help them understand the concepts and differences between being gay or lesbians and friendships.