Gender, Gender Identity, and Sexual Orientation

--If you have ever used or heard homophobic terms such as "fag," “gay,” “homo,” "sissy," "tom boy," or “lesbo” as an insult by a child toward another child? Or, by an adult toward a child? Describe what occurred. How might these types of comments influence all children? 


     Teaching fifth grade and listening to children in the neighborhood, I have heard children using these terms to insult other children. Unfortunately, these terms are used in a negative way to insult children who they may not like, who are different than they are, and sometimes just simply for no reason at all.  These comments influence other children because they hear these words being used to make fun of other people and in ways that are negative and hurtful. So, this influences what they believe the terms actually mean.  I have always talked with my students and my own children to explain to them that the words they use can do a lot of damage. I do not allow words as these to be used in a derogatory way within my classroom or my home. 


--How you would respond to a parent/family member who informed you they did not want anyone who is perceived (or self-reported) homosexual or transgender to be caring for, educating, and/or interacting with their child?


     The first thing I would relay to the parents who are concerned about this matter is that we always hire educators who are most qualified to offer the children a high quality early education. I would ensure them that as administrators our number one goal is the safety of the children and each staff member is dedicated to making sure the children are   safe and well cared for. I would also let the parents know that sexual preference should not be an issue as we live in a diverse world where we hope that children will grow up to accept all people. 


--Your response to those who believe that early childhood centers should avoid the inclusion of books depicting gay or lesbian individuals such as same-sex partnered families.


     I am a little torn on this issue. As a parent, this is a topic that I have not talked a lot about with my children. In my community, it is not common that they are exposed to same sex families. Therefore, I would rather introduce my children to this, talk with them, and read about it when I feel that it is right for my family. So, I am not sure that I would prefer to have them introduced to this topic at their early childhood centers. Within my community, this is not a topic that many children are exposed to in public education. My response would be to look at the community where the childcare center is located and determine the diversity within the area. If it is any area with a diverse community, it will be more accepting than areas where it is not as diverse.