Early childhood is the ideal time to begin emphazing the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion for young children. It is our role as early childhood educators to guide and help young children begin at an early age to recognize the differences in genders and cultural backgrounds. By doing so, we enhance “radical dialogue” within the classrooms in a shared learning space and community (Bernadette, 2012, p. 174). In the video, it mentions that it is  important for educators to implement activities or assignments where children learn to find their own voice and share their stories, for example, their religion, culture (i.e., food, music, celebrations, language), ethnicity, and gender. By that, young children will start to notice how to develop diverse ways to communicate and how to be heard by expressing themselves to others, while valuing other people’s perspectives around them.

                                                  References
Bernadette Christine Macartney (2012): Teaching through an ethics of belonging, care and obligation as a critical approach to transforming education, International Journal of Inclusive Education, 16:2, 171-183 

Early childhood is an essential period for young children to learn to see themselves in the world based on what the gendered norms, attitudes and expectations of their family, community and society have given to them. Educators play a dominant role in contesting gender norms and promoting inclusion and diversity in their classrooms. It is important to create an inclusive and equitable learning space, so that all students feel equally valued and supported, regardless of their gender identity or expression. Teachers should avoid using gendered language or stereotypes in the classroom. Instead, educators should try to create open opportunities for all students to participate in all activities and subjects. In the video, it has positively reinforced the idea of how all genders can succeed in subjects like Math, Science, Art, and Physical Activity. In order for educators to create an inclusive learning space, one way is to present diverse books, movies, videos and resources which represents all gender identities and expressions (i.e., Cisgender, Transgender, Queer). Lastly, educators can provide opportunities for open-ended discussions on questions about gender and identity which can promote respectful communication and understanding among a mixed group(s) of students (Sensory & DiAngelo, 2017, p. 34). It is the goal for educators to teach young children from an early age how to create a more equitable society where everyone ignores gender norms and stereotypes to be able to promote inclusivity. Teachers, educators, children, and students all play a significant role toward gender equality in schools.

                                                 References
Sensoy, O., & DiAngelo, R. (2017). Is everyone really equal?: An introduction to key concepts in social justice education. Teachers College Press.