Week 3: Gender, Gender Identity & Sexual Orientation

Heterosexism and Homophobia are biases and discrimination against same-sex couples, lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals because of their sexual orientation. These two concepts are more commonly practiced than I originally thought. Some individuals believe that early childhood centers should avoid the inclusion of books depicting gay or lesbian individuals such as same-sex partnered families. In response, I would explain that there are different types of families and they are represented in classrooms around the world. All families should be respected, valued and appreciated for their unique backgrounds. One strategy that anti-bias educators can use to include diverse family structures in the classroom is to use photos for games and discussions (Laureate Education, 2011).

I have heard a homophobic term used by one child toward another child. Aaron and Zach were playing a wresting game with their muscular male dolls. Aaron’s doll was defeated. Zach then became angry and yelled “I don’t want to play with your macho doll anyways….You whine like a little sissy punk every time you lose the game….sissies never win…they’re weak and act like girls.” As an anti-bias educator, I would explain to Zach that he is using the wrong word and that this word is very hurtful to people who are lesbians, gay, and bisexual. “Anti-bias educators can enhance children’s dramatic play by creating pictures depicting people of both genders engaged in nonstereotypical activities”(Laureate Education, 2011). Zach should be taught that both men and women wrestle and are equally competitive.

One insight that I have gained is that homophobia are feelings that can come from just about anyone.

References

Laureate Education, Inc. (2011). (Executive Producer). Learning from another's life story:Families and children. {Webcast}. Baltimore, MD: Author.