Anti-Oppressive Policy

[sunnydays]

First of all, I think it's great that you want to address this issue and try to help shape the future generation to be a little more inclusive and open-minded I think "Anti-prejudice" policy would be a better wording as oppression isn't quite the word you are intending I don't think. I actually have on my website an anti-prejudice policy because I do not want any families to sign up with me if they have prejudices against race, culture, religion, sexuality, etc. I totally agree with teaching the kids that it is totally okay to pretend to be a princess if you are a boy, or a constructin worker if you are a girl...these are things they grasp through play. I also think having stories about all kinds of families is great...kids learn by seeing things and through exposure that it is normal. I don't think though, that I would sit down and have a lesson on any of these things at the preschool level. You are opening a whole can of worms with that one! I also wouldn't teach about religion unless it came up (etc. Ali doesn't eat pork because he is Muslim) and then I would keep it really simple as they are too young to grasp it all. Plus you don't want them to be confused if they have a religion and are being taught one way and then you tell them about Buddhism for example and the start thinking they will be reincarnated instead of going to heaven or vice versa...parents may get upset. I think what it most important is to teach them to be accepting and to see the similarities (ex. Sally goes to church on Sunday because she is Christian and Asha goes to the mosque on Friday because she is Muslim). Even these statements are more for 3+ kids who can understand what you are saying. So, I highly recommend putting a policy in place against discrimination of any kind (make a list so it is clear) and have parents read that before starting with you. That way you will not have parents who will get mad at you for exposing their kids to things they don't agree with.