Understanding Cultural Competence in Early Childhood Education

 Cultural competence is not a checklist, but a mindset. In early childhood education, it means being respectful, responsive, and reflective when working with children and families from all cultural backgrounds. It's a lifelong learning process that helps us understand others and ourselves more deeply.  

"We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter their color." - Maya Angelou 

This quote reminds us that in the classroom, each child brings something unique and valuable. When we embrace those differences, we create stronger, richer communities for learners. 

📝From "Children Learn What They Live" by Dorothy Law Nolte: 

If children live with acceptance, they learn to love.

If children live with approval, they learn to like themselves. 

If children live with recognition, they learn it is good to have a goal. 

This poem teaches us that the environment we create especially around culture and identity shapes how children see themselves and others. 

This video above, what is Cultural Competence in Early Childhood Education? by Childhood Education Zone. Offers a clear, engaging overview of cultural competence in early learning settings. 

According to NAEYC (2020), cultural competence is "the ability to understand, appreciate, and interact with people from cultures or belief systems different from one's own. In early learning, it means: 

• Reflecting on your own identity and biases
• Learning about the cultures of your students and their families 
• Using respectful and inclusive practices 
• Advocating for equity in the classroom and beyond 

 ❓Why does this matter? ❓

Young children form their understanding of the world especially of difference and fairness during the early years. When we practice cultural competence, we: 

• Show children that who they are is valued 
• Build trust with families
• Reduce the risk of bias or misunderstanding 
• Create classrooms where everyone belongs 

References 

Angelou, M. Diversity makes for a rich tapestry 

Nolte, D.L (1972) Children Learn What They Live. 

National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). (2020). Advancing equity in early childhood education. 

https://www.naeyc.org/resources/position-statements/equity