ELF DOCUMENT

Early Learning Framework, is a foundational document in the early years sector. It provides a shared languages and common understanding of children’s learning and development for early years professionals as they work together in various early childhood setting.

6 ELF Principles are:

1. Positive experiences in early childhood set the foundation for lifelong learning, behaviour, health, and well-being.

2. Partnerships with families and communities are essential.

3. Respect for diversity, equity, and inclusion is vital.

4. An intentional, planned program supports learning.

5. Play and inquiry are learning approaches that capitalize on children’s natural curiosity and exuberance.

6. Knowledgeable, responsive, and reflective educators are essential. (How does learning happen, 2014, p. 10)

PRINCIPLE 3

Respect for diversity, equity, and inclusion is vital.

Demonstration of respect for diversity, equity and inclusion.

All children have a right to live and learn in an equitable society, including appearance, age, culture, ethnicity, race, language, gender, sexual orientation, religion,family environment and developmental abilities.

To incorporate Principle 3 on different age groups

Toddlers Preschoolers

Expose the children to Sounds- Songs, finger place, stories in

different language, music with various instruments.

Smells -Spices ,herbs , soaps and extracts

Textures – Fabrics, natural and manmade materials.

Tastes- Food and drink from different cultures.

Visual Images- Photos, books, posters that reflect diversity across the area of gender, age, ability, race, culture, appearance

Continue Exposing and familiarising them with diversity

Assist children to empathise and problem solve.

Use divergent and open ended questions.

Help children to identify and understand a victims feelings

Encourage children to think about how to respond to discrimination in a way that support self esteem.

Importance of Principle 3http://www.bernardvanleer.org/English/Home/Goals/Social-inclusion-and-respect-for-diversity.html

The FamilyThis principle highlight the importance of

strong, respectful and reciprocal relationships with families.

Creating an environment that welcomes families into the space, inviting their perspectives and providing opportunities for families to participate in meaningful ways.

When we recognise and build on the strengths of families and the love they have for their children, everyone benefits.

Action in child care settingsEarly childhood settings can organize programming to use the diversity of the participants as an asset that enriches the environment for everyone.

References

1. Hall, N.& Rhomberg ,V.(1995).The affective curriculum :Toronto :Nelson Canada

2. How does Learning Happen ?Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years, (2014 ), Canada :Queen’s Printer for Ontario