Ways to create a cultural diversity learning environment
The learning environment is fundamental in the development of all children. It helps to shape their experience and build on their knowledge of the world around them. Creating a cultural diversity environment is important in meeting the needs of all children within the setting. Children that attend Early Years settings often come from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds. Practitioners must support the beliefs and values of each child through a diverse environment. This can be achieved through a range of ways.
Policies
It is a good idea to often review and adapt policies in your setting to ensure you are meeting the diverse needs of all children, parents, and staff. Every setting should have a policy that outlines the requirements of an equal and diverse environment. This policy should be accessible at all times for every individual. This policy is designed to protect and support individuals from stereotyping, bullying or labelling. It is important that practitioners act as role models for the children and encourage them to treat everyone as an individual. This can help shape the thoughts and opinions of the future, helping to end prejudice.
Promoting British Values
Ofsted now requires all settings to promote actively the British Values and embed these into practice. The four fundamental values are democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance for those with different faiths and beliefs. Although named ‘British’ values, these values are inclusive of all religions, cultures, and ethnic backgrounds. They aim to teach children about the importance of self-esteem, managing their own behaviour and respect for others. The British values are embedded into the EYFS through Personal, Social and Emotional Development and important in promoting a cultural diversity environment, where all children belong.
Celebrating all festivals equally
Festivals are a great way for children, parents and practitioners to celebrate their beliefs and share their culture and religion with others. Many settings celebrate festivals or events such as Christmas, Diwali and Hanukkah, providing many activities based around the celebration for all children to access. It is important that practitioners use the celebrations to talk about the meaning behind it and talk about the different religions. Many children will enjoy activities to celebrate different religions but do not understand why they are doing it. This is vital in fully promoting an inclusive environment and enabling children to respect and learn about a range of religions.
Parent partnerships
Parents are fundamental in supporting the development and culturally diverse needs of all children in the setting. Parents are usually the ones who decide which religion their child will follow and embed their culture and beliefs into their learning. Ensuring a strong partnership with parents can support the practitioner incorrectly meeting these needs while the child is attending the setting. Parents can help practitioners by offering an in-depth knowledge of their religion and culture. This, in turn, can be shared with the children to show that all beliefs are respected and will be shared of all equal importance.
How does your setting promote a cultural diversity environment?