Growing My Own Cultural Awareness as an Educator

 Cultural competence is not a destination it's a continuous journey of growth and learning. As early childhood educators, we play a vital role in shaping the perspectives and values of young children. To support all learners and their families, I must first reflect on my own cultural lens and actively work to expand my understanding of others. 

Steps I Will Take to Increase My Cultural Awareness: 

1. Engage in Reflective Practice Regularly: I will set aside time to reflect on my own beliefs, biases, and assumptions. Tools like journaling, peer discussions, and cultural self-assessments will help me stay honest and aware of how my own background affects how I teach. 

2. Listen to Diverse Voices: I will read books, watch films, and follow educators, activists, and scholars from historically marginalized communities. Hearing their stories helps me understand perspectives I may not experience directly. 

3. Attend Professional Development on Equity & Inclusion: I will participate in workshops, webinars, and conferences that focus on anti-bias practices, cultural responsiveness and inclusive education. These experiences will help me stay current and informed.  

4. Seek Feedback: I will welcome and reflect on feedback from colleagues, families, and community members especially when it challenges me. Growth often starts with discomfort. 

5. Learn About My Student's Backgrounds: Each year, I will make a commitment to learn about the cultures, traditions, languages and values of the children in my classroom. I'll create opportunities for them to share, teach, and celebrate who they are. 

"Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom."- Lao Tzu 

Resource: 

Harro, B. (2010). The Cycle of Socialization. In M. Adams et al. (Eds.), Readings for Diversity and Social Justice. This framework helped me understand how we are socialized into biases and how we can interrupt that cycle through self-awareness.