Pride month is an important opportunity to not only expose and teach children about what it means but also share the history behind the month-long celebration. This celebration exists to foster a sense of community, appreciate differences, and cultivate diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging for all people around the world.
During the month of June we have been reading so many books about Pride. Throughout the stories they have learned about being kind, accepting, and understanding towards people who are different from them. Helped them see that love comes in many forms and that everyone deserves respect and equality. It also exposes them to becoming allies who stand up against bullying and support equal rights. They also had the opportunity to learn about important activists, artists, etc. in history who fought for LGBTQ+ rights. All while helping children understand their own identities better and feel more accepted. Ultimately the message through reading these books is that together we can create a world where love and acceptance are celebrated by all.
Whether you are an educator, parent, family member, caregiver, or anyone engaging with children it is necessary to create environments that reflect and support the diversity among us. Inclusive practices such as this, are an integral part of teaching children to be proud of themselves and their families, as well as educating those around us to be more understanding, tolerant, and loving to all people. Children need to know that they & their families matter both in and outside of their homes, no matter what the family dynamic consists of. "The knowledge and respect that you foster when you have these conversations helps create a safer, more inclusive community for everyone," Planned Parenthood.
Today we set out a #STEM & #SmallWorldPlay invitation to let the children create their very own Pride Parade. With wooden rainbow arches, translucent wooden blocks, potion bottles, flags, diverse + inclusive figurines, and music...the children built and created their very own community celebration filled with love, acceptance, and inclusivity all through the power of play!
