Professional Hopes and Goals

       One hope that you have when you think about working with children and families who come from diverse backgrounds (any format and any length)

       One goal you would like to set for the early childhood field related to issues of diversity, equity, and social justice (any format and any length)

       A brief note of thanks to your colleagues

My hope for children and families who come from a diverse background is that each one comes to enjoy the classroom as a place where their children will learn and make new friends. Children don’t see color or ethnic background as adults do. Many children learn about color and racism from parents not teachers. As I embark on my journey as an early childhood professional, my hope is that children learn to enjoy learning from one another matter what their race or color, and that they would learn to appreciate the diversity of their peers.

When does it start?

“The foundation of self-awareness is laid when children are infants and toddlers. At these stages, children learn "what is me" and "what is not me." Toddlers are sensitive to the feelings of the adults around them, and they begin to mimic adult behavior. By age two, children recognize and explore physical differences. They are also learning the names of colors, and they begin to apply this to skin color. Natural curiosity will lead to questions about differences.” (Biles, 1994)

My goal(s) I would like to set concerning the issue of diversity, equity, and social justice are to teach parents how to answer question from children about the different color people, the disabled, and the elderly without the biases. Some parents have a tendency to belittle other ethnic groups, people of different social class, and people that are less fortunate in areas of living conditions, finances, and the way other people look. Children learn from home.

 I would like to be able to teach a class where diversity, equity, and social justice and taught without barriers. You can’t say “Richard is black/white but he’s poor.” Or “Jamie is smart but she’s ugly.” People have a way of putting negativity where love is needed most. I taught my children to love and respect everyone even when they don’t get the same in return. “Teach children the right way, and the right way they will lead.” We have to think about the generation after ours and what we want carried on.’

Biles, B. (1994). Activities that promote racial and cultural awareness. In Todd, C.M. (Ed.), *Family child care connections*, 4(3), pp. 1­p; 4. Urbana-Champaign, IL: University of Illinois Cooperative Extension Service

To my instructor Dr. Ferrari, my colleagues, and to my family.

Thanks for all your support and feedback. These last eight weeks have been a challenge for me, not only because of the new materials but also because of new challenges I have faced. I really had to humble myself and be thankful for people like you in my life even if it may only be temporary. I do hope to see all of you in future classes and most importantly in the ECE field. I appreciate you! Good luck with future endeavors.