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Empathy is the ability to put yourself in the shoes of someone else and understand what they are feeling or experiencing. In the early years of life, young children are naturally ego-centric and are very much inclined to think mostly about themselves and their immediate needs. They’re not yet ready to consider the needs and feelings of others. These empathetic interactions are learned through modeling and experiences.

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Anti-bias early childhood care and education (ECCE) program puts diversity and equity goals at the center of all aspects of its organization and daily life. It involves much more than adding new materials and activities into the already existing learning environment. Rather, broad systemic changes are necessary. The learning environment and curriculum, as well as program policies, structures, procedures, and processes, all come into play. Change also includes the attitudes of the individuals who serve the children and families. A collaborative leadership approach allows employees to start and then take ownership of their anti-bias efforts. Anti-bias leadership is focused on early childhood care and education field's fundamental ideas and best leadership practices.

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Children learn best in a developmentally appropriate program that offers them the supports they need to participate successfully alongside their classmates. Many children with disabilities benefit from simple accommodations and modifications, while other children may need more specialized, individualized supports provided by special education professionals. These professionals will work with you, the children, and their families to help the children learn and thrive.

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During the preschool years, the basis for gender identity development is established. Even while most children can identify as boys or girls by the age of three, they are still sorting out the idea of gender. Even though gender role norms have broadened throughout time, children's future identity development may be aided by paying attention to the equality and variety of gender identity.

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In early childhood education, parent involvement is essential. Building relationships should be ongoing and have a link to the family's home. By establishing relationships with these families, participation in their child’s program can make parents feel welcome and at ease.

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This document may be printed, photocopied, and disseminated freely with attribution. All content is the property of the McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership.

Parent involvement is of absolute importance in early childhood education. For many parents, this step signifies the introduction to the education system at large. Many creative opportunities exist for parent involvement in early childhood programs and most parents participate in at least one way. However, there is often a lower percentage of parent participation from parents in the diverse community.

In my past experience as a Parent Involvement Coordinator I learned that it is not because these families don't care or don't want to participate. Culturally diverse families may have many differences from mainstream families; but they also have many similarities. Wanting the best education for their children and doing whatever they can to support them is one of these great similarities.
So how can we ensure all parents become more involved in their children's early care and education experiences?
Creating a welcoming environment is key!

First, it is important to note that for some parents stepping into your program is the first time they will step into a school in this country. Some families who have just arrived to this country do not speak English, do not know the system, and feel extremely intimidated. The first and best way to get them involved is to make them feel welcomed. Early childhood programs can make these families feel welcomed by developing relationships with them. Directors, teachers, and other early childhood staff-such as receptionists, cooks, and van/bus drivers-can attempt to get to know these families better by trying to understand their culture and their traditions.

Developing a relationship of mutual trust and respect by the director and staff is critical. Relationship building should be ongoing and have a connection to the family's home. Once this partnership is established, families will feel more comfortable becoming engaged in their child's early childhood program.Page Break
Where can you go to get started in learning how to better engage diverse families in your program?
I encourage you to revisit the McCormick Center's resource, " The Value of Culture in Your Family Partnerships," for some ideas to help engage diverse families in your program. I also invite you to join us for sessions surrounding this topic at Leadership Connections™ National Conference. Or, consider exploring the  Aim4Excellence™ Module 8: Building Partnerships with Families online module to help you implement new strategies in your program. Below are resources that can provide additional insight into this topic:

Wendy is currently an Assessor and Training Specialist for McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership at National Louis University. Previously, Wendy worked as a Parent Involvement Coordinator for a state pre-K program.

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Engaging Diverse Families in Your Early Childhood Program

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This document may be printed, photocopied, and disseminated freely with attribution. All content is the property of the McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership. Parent involvement is of absolute importance in early childhood education. For many parents, this step signifies the introduction to the education system at large.

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Title: Speak Up
Author: Miranda Paul
Publisher: Clarion Books
Copyright dates: July 7, 2020

Miranda Paul’s novel Speak Up is about when it comes to issues that are truly important, one person's voice can make a difference. This lively picture book promotes variety and encourages children to speak out, come together, and act when they notice something that needs to be corrected.

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When something really matters, one voice can make a difference. This spirited, picture book celebrates diversity and encourages kids to s...

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Title: I Am Enough
Author: Grace Byers
Publishers: Balzer& Bray
Copyright dates: March 06, 2018

Grace Byers' inspiring and motivating novel I Am Enough is about female empowerment and appreciation for diversity. The main message of the book is one of self-worth and acceptance of one's individuality. Her message teaches children to appreciate differences and treats others with respect and kindness.

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A #1 New York Times bestseller and Goodreads Choice Awards picture book winner! This is the perfect gift for mothers and daughters, baby showers, and graduation.

This gorgeous, lyrical ode to loving who you are, respecting others, and being kind to one another comes from Empire actor and activist Grace Byers and talented newcomer artist Keturah A. Bobo.

We are all here for a purpose. We are more than enough. We just need to believe it.

Plus don't miss I Believe I Can -the next beautiful picture celebrating self-esteem from Grace Byers and Keturah A. Bobo!

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I Am Enough [Byers, Grace, Bobo, Keturah A.] on Amazon.com. *FREE* shipping on qualifying offers. I Am Enough

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Title: Different---A Great Thing To Be!
Author: Heather Avis
Publisher: WaterBrook
Copyright dates: June 29, 2021

This cheerful rhyming book teaches children to respect the "different" in everyone, paving the way for a kinder society where everyone's individuality is acknowledged and embraced. Macy is a girl who is like you and me, but she is also unique, which is a wonderful thing to be. With compassion, elegance, and bravery, Macy finds her place in the world, giving beauty and joy wherever she goes and motivating others to value each person's unique design.

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Michigan Alliance for Families provides information, support, and education for families who have children and young adults (birth to 26 years of age) who receive (or may be eligible to receive) special education services. This website can help you with finding information on special education issues as well as disability specific information.