Minneapolis – In a YWCA preschool classroom, a reading of the children’s book Hair Love sparked a teachable moment about family belonging. When a child remarked, “Dads don’t do hair, only moms can do hair,” the teacher guided the discussion toward the reality that families come in many forms.
Encouraging Open Dialogue
Students shared their own experiences: one child mentioned a grandparent (Nani) who styles hair daily, while another noted that his dad can tie a ponytail. The teacher then asked each child who helps them get ready each morning, prompting a conversation about the variety of family structures – two‑parent homes, single‑parent homes, households with two dads or two moms, and those where grandparents play a central role.
“Young children are naturally curious about the world around them,” said Stephanie Thomas, vice president of Early Childhood Education at YWCA Minneapolis. “When we encourage open dialogue, we help them become more confident in exploring new ideas and experiences.”
Curriculum Rooted in Local Experience
In 2021, the YWCA released its Anti‑Bias Curriculum for the Preschool Classroom, a guide that reflects years of practice in its own early‑learning settings. The curriculum equips teachers with strategies that use books, imaginative play, and everyday disagreements to foster empathy and respect.
For example, a comment during story time can lead to a conversation about family structures, while a dispute over a toy becomes a lesson in fairness. The goal is not to dictate what children think, but to help them ask questions, understand different perspectives, and develop a positive sense of self.
Hands‑On Learning and Community Service
The YWCA’s We Care Social Responsibility Curriculum extends these principles by involving toddlers and preschoolers in real‑world service projects. Children create toys and treats for animal shelters and decorate bags for Meals on Wheels recipients. These activities teach empathy and demonstrate that even small actions can make a difference.
Such experiences often ripple beyond the classroom. A child who invites a new peer to play or learns why another family celebrates different traditions carries forward the lesson of inclusion.
Special Enrollment Offer for Local Families
To encourage more families to benefit from this approach, YWCA Minneapolis is extending a one‑week‑free enrollment promotion through December 31, 2026, for readers of the Sahan Journal. Families who enroll by that date will receive a complimentary week of tuition at a YWCA Early Childhood Education center.
By integrating anti‑bias education early, the YWCA aims to nurture a generation of children who respect one another’s differences while upholding the core values of family, faith, and individual liberty.
Original reporting: Sahan Journal — read the source article.
