- Celebrate each child’s uniqueness by talking openly and positively with them about their individual characteristics and similarities and differences with others.
- Value difference through showing genuine interest in and valuing all children’s contributions through listening carefully and providing opportunities for children to be fully themselves.
- Offer extra support to children in new situations or when they are feeling anxious or insecure.
- Talk to children about choices they make and help them understand that this may mean that they cannot do something else.
- Show trust in young children’s abilities by showing them how to use and care for materials, letting them try and noticing when they need help; offering but not taking over.
- Be aware of and respond to the particular needs of children who are learning English as an additional language.
- Engage with children in exploring and talking about what they are doing, valuing their ideas and ways of doing things.
- Offer help with activities when asked but not before and see struggle and mistakes as important parts of learning.
- Intervene when children need help and validation of their feelings in difficult situations, such as prejudice or unkindness.
- Use resources such as books or puppets to engage children in thinking about difference, unfairness, prejudice and discrimination.
- Notice and appreciate young children’s efforts not just their achievements, encouraging their inner motivation rather than working just for your approval or a sticker.
- Listen carefully to young children. Take their ideas and opinions into account and involve them in making decisions about daily events. Be aware that young children with disabilities or learning difficulties may need additional support in making choices and decisions and being autonomous.
