Q1. I grew up in a culture that didn’t value children’s rights and feelings.

We have been
taught to obey adults and authorities, especially males, and we must respect and listen
(Adler et al, P.46). Adult has the absolute power to decide things for children. I realize
how I have been affected by this cultural norm when interacting with children. Adults
are superior to children. I sometimes unconsciously neglect children’s wants and needs
by instructing them how to behave than allowing them to be themselves. I had once
organized an activity for a group of kids, and I later realized I have excluded their
opinions or thought from their perspectives. It was horrible.

Q2.

Cultural Appreciation

ECE students can advocate the importance of appreciating one’s own culture. Guiding
children to learn, identify, and appreciate their cultures and backgrounds. I believe if
children can relate to their cultures and practice traditions without being prejudiced; that
would help them to build connections to their roots. We can organize events to explore
different cultures and traditions, have young children share what they practice at home,
and so on. That not only helps the children to appreciate their own cultures but also learn
to respect others’ cultures as well. Lots of examples were shared in class that how
cultures take part in communication. One of the students shared her parents’ different
standpoints in how old of a child is expected to move out. Their standpoints are
influenced by different cultural backgrounds. The difference has made her not knowing
which way to follow.

Practice Equality

ECE students guide children to understand that human beings should be treated fairly. I
believe practicing equality is the reflection of our emotional intelligence; and it helps
develop empathy (Adler et al, P.46). Children are great supporters of fairness. They can
be taught to understand we should not treat people differently because of race, look and
background. ECE students are role models to show children in practicing equality. This
positive behavior can extend to settings outside of school.