Evaluating
Impacts on Professional Practice
I
understand my personal-life factors may impact the emotional, intellectual, and
social development of the young children and families in my classroom. I considered several situations. One aspect that I anticipate experiencing
relates to gender stereotyping and sexism.
I have never had a child from a lesbian or gay family. Recently, a new student enrolled in another
kindergarten classroom. This young man
has a lesbian mom that includes her partner living together. This family structure does not personally
bother me. However, this family dynamic
is very unfamiliar to me. In addition, I
feel pressure from my Church and the Christian beliefs I have been taught. This has been a topic of several sermons over
the past several months. I do not agree
with judging others and dismissing them for their beliefs as some Churches
believe. If I was unwilling to be
accepting of differences, my children would suffer. This risk of hurting them is great. Their self-esteem and self-confidence could
be harmed. They would feel isolated and
unworthy. I would never want to be
guilty of making a child feel this way.
I try to treat them with the love and care I would expect for my own child. It is not always easy, but it is so
important.
As
an educator, it becomes imperative to set aside my personal feelings in order
to accommodate the needs of my children.
We live in a culturally diverse world with no room for prejudice. Our children need to be taught awareness and
tolerance. It is our responsibility as
teachers and parents to educate our students.
In this scenario, I would research gay or lesbian families and issues
using course materials and internet research.
I would visit with members of local organizations that represent these
families. Foremost, I would take the
initiative to communicate with the family about their experiences and
expectations. Taking their needs and
lifestyle into account will help me incorporate stories and activities that
help children understand family differences. Children and families are similar to
snowflakes – each one is unique in its own way.
