Religious background can create a strong sense of mortality, a feeling of community, and can even provide positive coping mechanisms for a child to utilize. However, religion can also create a feeling of guilt and anxiety depending on the religious rules. If they are strict, a child may feel suffocated and isolated if they cannot participate in activities other children with differing religious beliefs can participate in. It may also limit a child's perspective on diverse viewpoints.

Forms of implicit bias include gender bias, beauty bias, affinity bias, or confirmation bias.

Gender bias is when you prefer one gender over another. An example of gender bias can be a teacher favoring male students more than female students.

Beauty bias is when you judge someone based on how attractive they are, rather their personality or capabilities. An example of beauty bias is surrounding yourself with people who you find attractive and isolating those who you don't find visually attractive.

Affinity bias is when you are more drawn to individuals who are similar to you rather than those who are different. An example of affinity bias is a teacher calling on students who remind them of themselves or family members.

Confirmation bias is when you assume something about someone and search for evidence to support this assumption. An example of confirmation bias is a teacher believing a student cannot be trusted with tools but only focuses on times when the child uses them improperly.

Valuing diversity is a foundational principle that emphasizes the importance of appreciating and respecting the unique characteristics, experiences, and perspectives that come with different cultures. Allowing yourself and students to have an open mind and willingness to learn about the differences in people around you can create a safe space for them to learn and thrive in.

Conducting ongoing self-assessments allows individuals to identify their own cultural biases, assumptions, and areas of knowledge gaps. This allows them to actively work on improving their cultural competence over time.

Managing differences helps to improve and develop strategies to navigate and address cultural differences constructively. This can include active listening, using culturally appropriate language, and being flexible in communication to avoid misunderstandings.

Willingness to develop cultural knowledge is a commitment to continuously learn about different cultures. Including their history, values, beliefs, and practices. It is a valuable skill that is crucial for building a deeper understanding and navigating diverse situations effectively.

Ability to adapt to the cultural needs of the community can include tailoring approaches and services to align with the specific cultural norms and expectations of the community. This ensures that everyone receives culturally sensitive and relevant support.

Creating age-appropriate lesson plans around the idea of developing cultural competence is an example of how I can apply this framework in my future classroom.

Implicit bias can lead to differential treatment based on factors like race, gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or even appearance.

An example of this would be academic expectations. Depending on a child's background, a teacher may hold lower academic expectations for students which can lead to less challenging assignments, or less support being provided. This will ultimately limit the child's learning potential.

Another example includes parent engagement. A teacher may have preconceived notions about the level of involvement parents from certain backgrounds will have. This can lead to less outreach or assumptions about their commitment to their child and the education they receive.

Allowing yourself to turn a blind eye towards the effects this has on your students and their families is harmful and neglectful and will ultimately damage the relationships formed with them.