We were asked to write this book as a way to share our knowledge regarding the work we do that focuses on educating programs to build equitable environments for all students, families, and educators. As the preschool population becomes more diverse, educational organizations must address the embedded, historically inequitable practices and policies to meet the needs of the inevitable diversity in every community in the United States. There is diversity of thought, diversity of race/ethnicity, diversity of socioeconomics, diversity of sexuality and gender, diversity of religion, diversity of ability, diversity of age, and diversity of experiences. Each of these diverse identities has been, and continues to be, part of early learning environments. Therefore, it is imperative to do this work and to start or continue the conversations regarding transforming early childhood environments to be inclusive for all. Overall, the information in this book will provide a how-to model filled with reflection questions, activities, and resources, with the overarching theme of DEIAB.
Read this blog: Can’t We Just Keep Things Like They Are? 4 Equity Myths in Early Childhood
In their new book Coaching for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Belonging in Early Childhood, Anni K. Reinking and Laycee Thigpen address some of these myths that persist when discussing equity-focused work. Excerpted and lightly adapted from the book, today’s post is a good starting point for vital conversations around inequitable practices and policies.