While racism exists in wider society it cannot be said to be inclusive. The same is true of early years provision. Racism usually means all those attitudes, practices and procedures that, both historically and in the present, disadvantage and discriminate against people because of their skin colour, ethnicity, culture, religion, nationality or language.
Inclusive practice dictates that we encourage all young children to respect and value difference and that we take careful and positive steps to counter any negative attitudes or behaviour. Heavy-handed, manipulative or punitive strategies have no place in an inclusive approach.
Children learn their attitudes, values and behaviour from the adults around them, so all practitioners carry the responsibility to act as positive role models in this respect. Settings need to ensure that their policies, curriculum and resources reflect the diversity within society and that they truly welcome and accept all children and their families.
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