It has long been my belief that the classroom is not only where children grow as mathematicians and readers, but is also a special place where young people learn about themselves and how to engage with the world around them. I have found children's literature to be one of the most powerful resources in helping children along this journey of discovery.
The presence or absence of materials representing the children in a classroom sends a powerful message. Research shows that, "When children see themselves and their families reflected in their early childhood setting, they feel affirmed and that they belong. When children's identities and families are invisible, the opposite happens. Children feel that they are unimportant and do not belong." (Derman-Sparks and Edwards 2009, 13).
If this project is fully funded, it will not only increase reading engagement and growth in my classroom, but will also help my students feel seen and valued. Having diverse literature will also help my students learn about people who may be different from themselves and foster an appreciation and celebration of these differences.
I believe that achieving equity in today's society begins by fostering a deep sense of belonging and acceptance among our children. The books I seek in this project will create opportunities for teaching, modeling and practicing these values. Please help me strive for equity one book at a time.
About my class
It has long been my belief that the classroom is not only where children grow as mathematicians and readers, but is also a special place where young people learn about themselves and how to engage with the world around them. I have found children's literature to be one of the most powerful resources in helping children along this journey of discovery.
The presence or absence of materials representing the children in a classroom sends a powerful message. Research shows that, "When children see themselves and their families reflected in their early childhood setting, they feel affirmed and that they belong. When children's identities and families are invisible, the opposite happens. Children feel that they are unimportant and do not belong." (Derman-Sparks and Edwards 2009, 13).
If this project is fully funded, it will not only increase reading engagement and growth in my classroom, but will also help my students feel seen and valued. Having diverse literature will also help my students learn about people who may be different from themselves and foster an appreciation and celebration of these differences.
I believe that achieving equity in today's society begins by fostering a deep sense of belonging and acceptance among our children. The books I seek in this project will create opportunities for teaching, modeling and practicing these values. Please help me strive for equity one book at a time.