The Early Years

Noting that racism is inherent--often in hidden ways--in all aspects of British society and is damaging to all children, this book provides thoughtful and practical support for early childhood workers to help children develop a sense of self-worth and to ensure equality of opportunity for all children. The book identifies the many ways in which young children experience racism; discusses good practice in language development, curriculum development, and working with parents; and identifies the importance of policies that are implemented, and of training and resources to take these policies forward. Sections 1 and 2 of the book are informative and intended to build confidence and understanding of what racism is and how to deal with it positively through day-to-day practice with children. Section 3 is concerned with understanding the British national initiatives that support or hinder equality. The final chapter is a practical discussion of training and should be read in conjunction with the first two sections. The individual chapter titles are: (1) "Young Children and Racial Difference"; (2) "Understanding Racial Inequality"; (3) "Language, Learning and Multilingual Development"; (4) "Creating a Curriculum and Ethos for Racial Equality"; (5) "Parental Involvement: Fostering Confidence and Communication"; (6) "Antiracism: Policy Developments in the Early Years"; (7) "The State in Three Acts" (on institutional racism and reform legislation); and (8) "Training and Resources: The Way Forward." The book concludes with a listing of useful sources and resources for racial equality. Contains 127 references. (HTH)