The children also needed to learn how to come to an agreement and how to move forward after experiencing conflict. As I worked with them, I realized that I had to consider their cultural contexts and adjust my teaching approaches: Some children worried that disagreeing or identifying something as unfair would be disrespectful. I had to guide them to understand that in our classroom, they have voices and choices.
Children need to know that they can speak up and ask questions in a respectful way. They need to know that they have the right to speak up when they are treated unfairly. These skills are necessary as they grow and become adults.
Children who attend extended day programs often have relationships with each other over years and across age groups— sometimes into adulthood. Knowing that I’ m an important part of their story motivates me to show them how to take action and lead.
Sustained Impact on Practice
Having time to pause and unpack their thinking allowed Sandra P., Sandra C., Sicili, and June to surface many insights regarding how they intentionally work to develop identity, nurture diverse perspectives, promote justice-oriented mindsets, and strengthen activist voices. By leaning together into this challenging work, they strengthened their teaching, giving it greater intentionality, shape, and voice.
› Learning alongside others enhances professional growth. Sustained opportunities to learn and work together deepen educators’ commitment to anti-bias goals and clarify ways to support children to learn them.
› Achieving anti-bias goals is an iterative act. Educators must continually adjust their practices as they understand children’ s contexts.
› Teaching children about identity, diversity, justice, and activism fosters enduring relationships.
› Anti-bias education thrives in community. When early childhood educators share antibias practices, their network of committed participants expands to the voices of our youngest learners and families.
Acknowledgment
The authors would like to recognize the Virginia Department of Education, which administers the Virginia Early Educator Scholarship, and the Virginia Early Childhood Foundation Pathfinders Scholarship for supporting adult students’ educational journeys. Scholarships increase access to educational opportunities and support the professional growth and development of teachers in the field, resulting in a lasting impact on the quality of educational experiences shaping young minds and our communities.
While these four professionals are extended day educators, their experiences have lessons for those who work in a variety of roles and settings. Among them:
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