My respond to a parent or family member who inform me they did not want anyone who is perceived (or self-reported homosexual or transgender to be caring for, educating, and or interacting with their child is by reassuring them that their sexual orientation should not have any bearing on their child or children receiving a high quality education. I would also inform them that they are entitled to their opinion. After reassuring them that sexual orientation of the educators should not be problem and give them the option of finding another program that can meet their families’ needs.
My opinion on the inclusion of books depicting gay or lesbian individual such as same- sex partnered families is at this age children are beginning to discover themselves and the sexual orientation of families should not be an issue in my opinion. I haven’t read any children books or watch any DVD that deal with the topics of gay or lesbian individuals. I think before implementing this into your curriculum, this has to be discussed with faculty, staff, and parents. As a whole I don’t feel this should be addressed in the early childhood program unless it has to be addressed.
Reference:
Laureate, (2010). "Start Seeing Diversity: Gender "Start Seeing Diversity: Sexual Orientation
