I want to
share a story that is not totally stereotyping but it was something said about
someone that was different. When my granddaughter was 3 years old (she is now
4) we were in Wal-Mart and this lady walked past us. My granddaughter looked at
her and said “she got a big stomach.” My daughter and I could not believe what
we had just heard. Both of us said be quiet do not say that. My granddaughter
said “she having a baby.” My daughter and I told her that everyone who has a
big stomach is not having a baby.
Our response
probably made her feel as though she said something wrong. We all notice
differences, but children are quick to point them out. It took us by surprise,
so our first instinct was to tell her to be quiet. We did not want the lady to
hear her say that. I also did not want the lady to think we teach her
disrespect.
As an
anti-bias educator I would teach her that everyone is different. I would tell
her we do not all look alike. I would also tell her it is ok to ask questions
about differences. I have been teaching her about differences. My mother is in
a wheelchair, but she has never asked why. I will continue to teach her about
diversity until she understands. She does understand some of it.
Hi Brenda,
ReplyDeleteI think it is one of every person's fears to congratulate a woman on a pregnancy only to find out that she isn't pregnant. I can only imagine how awkward it was for you to have to address your granddaughter for her comments. It think that every parent or grandparent is afraid of being judged when a child makes a comment about differences. I think it is wonderful that this course has allowed you to learn ways that you can openly talk about differences with your granddaughter. I'm sure you will be a great model of anti-bias lifestyle for her.
Thanks,
Sharon
As a favorite Bill Cosby t.v. show once said, " children say the darnest things." Like any good thing in life, adults have to be able to respond to young children in a positive way and manner to help them learn how to respond to differences among people. This will help them in their future walk in life and to be more comfortable with the world and all of the differences.
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