“People who develop observational skills notice human behavior more accurately.”

Awareness of the following should be kept in mind when working with young children:

1. Personal bias: “opinions influence the way teachers behave and interact with children”. “Assumptions made about a child often stereotype rather than illuminate the child (or the group).” Being aware of one’s own thoughts can temper how a situation or child is viewed; always strive for objectivity.

2. Media: the effects of viewing violence and victimization, consumerism and stereotyping.

3. Disabilities: helping children with disabilities integrate into a program while adhering to The Americans with Disabilities Act and Individuals with disabilities into Education Act.

4. Gender: “be gender inclusive or neutral…[avoid] using gender designations.”


By: Dianna Dammir