Observing Communication

I observed a child asking a parent why a woman was riding in a wheelchair in the grocery store.  The woman was riding a hoover round and was uanble to walk.  The parent simply told the child that the woman was old.  The child then asked how come grandma walks; she is old?  The parent then replied that some old people can walk and some cannot. 

In the communication, I do not believe that the child was satisfied with the answer.  The parent should have taken the time to explain that some people are disabled or they become weak as they get older.  As a result, some older people have to ride hover rounds to help them get around.  Parents and teachers should take the opportunity to teach children about diversity and ensure that the children learn how to identify and accept diversity in others.

Creating Affirming Environments

I work in a Head Start environment.  The Head Start classroom would have sections and learning areas to promote learning activities for children.  The materials in the classroom would include photos and books that represent the diverse group of children in the class.

I would include:

1. Books that promote diversity
2. Images of people who represent the children in the class
3. Music
4. Toys and activities
5. Art

The classroom would have a active play area, a reading area, and a learning center.  The children would work in small groups at tables in the class.