How you would respond to
a parent/family member who informed you they did not want anyone who is
perceived (or self-reported) homosexual or transgender to be caring for,
educating, and/or interacting with their child
I would explain to the parents that a teacher's sexual orientation has no bearing on the teacher's ability to teach. Teachers are diverse and complex as other members of society. As a result, sexual orientation does not impact the quality of care. Furthermore, I would explain that children need to be exposed to diversity because the world is diverse.
If you have ever used or
heard homophobic terms such as "fag," "gay,"
"homo," "sissy," "tom boy," or "lesbo"
as an insult by a child toward another child? Or, by an adult toward a child?
Describe what occurred. How might these types of comments influence all
children?
I have heard children use the term "that's so gay". It is an expression that refers to something that is stupid or ignorant behavior. Children also use this to describe acts or behavior that is considered homosexual. This is very offensive to children and it makes them feel ashamed or embarrased. As a result, it is important for educators to explain to children that it is wrong to use these terms. Children need to understand that it is stereotyping and it presents gay as a bad term. Therefore, I would teach children not to bully or tease, and not to be biased.
I have heard children use the term "that's so gay". It is an expression that refers to something that is stupid or ignorant behavior. Children also use this to describe acts or behavior that is considered homosexual. This is very offensive to children and it makes them feel ashamed or embarrased. As a result, it is important for educators to explain to children that it is wrong to use these terms. Children need to understand that it is stereotyping and it presents gay as a bad term. Therefore, I would teach children not to bully or tease, and not to be biased.
Hi Tammy,
ReplyDeleteI have never heard one of the children that I work with use any of these terms; however, I have had parents descibe their daughters as little tomboys. I was considered a tomboy when I was growing up as well. A tomboy is a stereotype that girls are given when they enjoying doing what society calls "boy stuff". I have always felt that girls could and should be allowed to do what is considered the role of boys and boys could and should be allowed to do what is considered the role of girls. It is just important in this day and age that boys learn how to nurture babies and they can only do this if they are given the opportunity to practice by playing with dolls. As for girls they need to know things about cars so that they do not get taken advantage of and so that they can be self-reliant
Luci
Tammy,
ReplyDeleteThat is a good explanation for parents who would be concerned if a teacher was perceived as being gay. I thought the explanation in the media presentation "Start Seeing Diversity: Sexual Orientation" (Laureate Education, Inc., 2011) made a good point when they said children need to be taught to be respectful to others even if they appear different from what they are used to. Getting to know others who are different from you is one of the best ways of dispelling stereotypes.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2011). "Start Seeing Diversity: Sexual Orientaion" [Course media]. Baltimore, MD: Author.
Tammy,
ReplyDeleteYesterday I was out with some friends. One of them mentioned how she thinks two of her guy friends were "fags". But right after she said that she said that she does not care if they are or not. She just wants them to admit that they were gay.
I was very surprised by my friends comments. I had never known her to be so overt about same sex partners before.
Thanks for sharing,
Crystal
Hi tammie/ thanks alot for sharing.I particularly liked your idea about calling others names and demaeaning them. I donot want to see children being put down because it affecs their socioemotional development. However, I feel that our very existence,what we believe in and our values do transcend as we teach children and I worry about the effect of certain sensitive issues behind the doors of our classrooms. Thanks again for sharing; I know it is only through dialogue and opinions that our early childhood education can become a safe and good formative forum for all children.
ReplyDelete