Big Words for Young Learners: Anti-Bias Education Inspired by Dr. King

Dear Complementary Curriculum Approach Educators,

As Martin Luther King Day approaches we are thinking about freedom, advocacy, and justice for our country and the world. Just a reminder that while we have one national holiday to commemorate the work of Dr. King, being inspired by his message is something that can happen all year. The book, Martin’s Big Words by Doreen Rappapor t, illustrated by Bryan Collier is wonderful in its simplicity and complexity. Teachers and parents can read the full text or just the “big words” which stand alone as powerful reminders of what we must focus on to ensure equity and fairness for all.

Approaching topics related to injustice, prejudice, race, class, gender, and differences in ability is all part of Anti-bias Education. “Anti-bias work is essentially optimistic work about the future of our children” (Derman-Sparks ,Edwards & Goins, 2020). It involves helping children to learn about how they are different from and similar to others. While not always easy topics for adults, children are aware of differences at very young ages and uniquely attuned to equity issues – they know what is fair and what is not. Why focus on Anti-Bias Education? Because:

Families want their children to have every opportunity to become successful contributing members of society.
Teachers want to meet every child’s needs and have them engage in joyful learning that supports their social, cognitive, physical, and creative development.
People charged with stewardship of education initiatives want to support all children, families and educators to live, learn and work together in respectful, inclusive environments

A Complementary Curriculum Approach has equity at its heart.

All children have the right to make decisions about their own learning, to engage with materials and topics that interest them, and to have freedom in their educational settings. When approached thoughtfully, Anti-Bias Education has many possible entry points. The Four Intentions invite you to plan curriculum that is responsive to children’s needs and what you can do to make your classroom a place of learning and growth. It is an entry to cultivating more equitable, child-centered experiences.

Martin Luther King Day reminds us of some tremendous achievements and how much work we still have left to do. Take some time this month as we enter a new year, to think about what you stand for, how you might move forward, and who your partners will be in creating change.