In this conversation, Toby explores themes of empathy, equity, and inclusion in early childhood education, centered around the book, Little Learners, Big Hearts with authors Randy Ross, Orinthia Harris and Jill Flanders . The discussion highlights the importance of addressing implicit biases, fostering diversity, and creating inclusive classrooms where all children, including those with disabilities, are valued and celebrated. Key strategies include professional development focused on equity, using multicultural literature as tools for learning, and adopting a "heart-centered" teaching framework emphasizing hope, education, acknowledgment, and community engagement. The conversation also tackles systemic issues like the preschool-to-prison pipeline and emphasizes the role of educators and families in nurturing understanding and compassion in young learners, despite the challenges posed by polarized societal attitudes.

Books:

Little Learners, Big Hearts: A Teacher’s Guide to Nurturing Empathy and Equity in Early Childhood: https://www.solutiontree.com/little-learners-big-hearts.html

Antiracist baby by Ibram kendi: https://www.ibramxkendi.com/antiracistbaby

A Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats: https://www.ejkf.org/ezras-books-the-snowy-day/

Born on the Water: https://www.penguinclassroom.com/books/the-1619-project-born-on-the-water/

Advancing Empathy and Equity in Early Childhood Education: https://www.solutiontree.com/advancing-empathy-and-equity-in-early-childhood-education.html

The Advantures of Butchie by Mary Edmonson: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Butchie-Mary-Edmondson/dp/B09VH1KJWG

Princess Pooh: https://www.amazon.com/Princess-Pooh-Kathleen-M-Muldoon/dp/0807566276

Websites:
Dr. Gilliam Yale University 2016 study: https://medicine.yale.edu/news-article/implicit-bias-may-help-explain-high-preschool-expulsion-rates-for-black-children/

Pacer Institute: https://www.pacer.org/about/howpacerhelps.asp

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For more information please visit https://inclusionworkshops.com/