Gender, Gender Identity, and Sexual Orientation

If you have ever used or heard homophobic terms such as "fag," "gay," "homo," "sissy," "tom boy," or "lesbo" as an insult by a child toward another child? Or, by an adult toward a child? Describe what occurred. How might these types of comments influence all children? 

     

      Growing up I used may of these words to categorize someone who I perceived as being homosexual or simply did not fit the typical mold that many think is normal. It was not fair and as I have reconnected with some of these old acquaintances through social media, I have apologized for being rude and judgmental. The affects of my words caused pain and that was not fair to this person. Speaking in this manner affects not only the child it is being said to but also any child who witnesses the occurrence  This can cause the formation of a bias or stereotype simply by seeing how someone else is treated. If a male child is seen wearing a dress in the home living center and another child calls him "gay" then another child could form the idea that any boy who wears a dress is gay which not true at all. 
Your response to those who believe that early childhood centers should avoid the inclusion of books depicting gay or lesbian individuals such as same-sex partnered families

       This is completely unfair and unwarranted. For me, this is the same level as asking black history month not be observed because the majority of the class is caucasian. We are a diverse population and by leaving out any diversity we are not being just. I know if I had same-sex parents but only saw hetero-parents depicted in books then I would feel left out or even lost as this is not my reality. Simply reading a book or seeing two people of the same sex in a hugging embrace is not going to "make" a child gay or lesbian and I would reiterate this over and over again to let other know that inclusion of this material is important for everyone. 

How you would respond to a parent/family member who informed you 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.

       I would have to let this parent/family know that my setting may not be the best for him/her. We do allow everyone who has a passion for working with young children do that and his/her sexual orientation bears no weight on his/her ability as an early childhood professional. As there are not too many people who are willing to enter an early childhood setting, I will take any person who wants to do so. We all have bias and stereotypes and that should not be the determining factor of who cares for your child if he/she does do in a manner that is appropriate and caring. 

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