ERIC Number: ED480623
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2003
Pages: 115
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: ISBN-0-9744377-2-7
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Serving Biracial and Multiethnic Children and Their Families: A Video and Early Childhood Educator's Guide [with] a Set of Family Portraits.
Fleming, Tarah, Ed.
Noting that the fastest growing populations in the United States are biracial and multiethnic children, this multimedia exploration of dual-heritage children was developed to inform the early care and education community of the unique identity development of biracial children and their families. The multi-media packet is comprised of an educator's guide, a 30-minute videotape, and a set of five, poster-sized family portraits to welcome and affirm multiethnic children and families. Following introductory remarks providing tips for group facilitators and definitions of relevant terms, the educator's guide is organized into 6 topic areas designed to be explored in facilitated discussions that promote the sharing of ideas and experiences: (1) stages of identity development; (2) identifying and responding to the unique experience of biracial children and their families; (3) racial and cultural labeling; (4) the impact of environmental factors on multiracial children; (5) ensuring cultural sensitivity in child care; and (6) integrating materials and activities on biracial children into existing multicultural curricula. Each topic area includes learning objectives, teaching methods and suggested activities, required materials and additional information. A framework for each topic area includes the use of videos, handouts, overhead transparencies, additional readings, and resources for further exploration. Appended are resources and suggested reading for children, youth, and adults as well as information on transracial adoption. The videotape contains footage from child care facilities and family interviews highlighting the importance of understanding the unique experience of the multiracial family. The videotape also features adoption and early childhood professionals and biracial individuals discussing identity development in biracial and multiethnic children and integrating materials and activities for multiethnic children in early childhood settings. The video emphasizes the impact of a positive self image on adjustment and achievement, milestones in caregivers' understanding of racial/ethnic identity development, stages of ethnic identity, and the importance of practitioners articulating the program philosophy regarding mixed race to families and respecting how families deal with racial issues. (KB)
Descriptors: Caregiver Training, Child Care, Culturally Relevant Education, Early Childhood Education, Ethnic Stereotypes, Ethnicity, Family School Relationship, Labeling (of Persons), Leaders Guides, Multiracial Persons, Parent School Relationship, Preschool Curriculum, Transracial Adoption, Videotape Recordings, Young Children
Childcare Health Program, 2625 Alcatraz, Suite 369, Berkeley, CA 94705-2702 ($89, total package; $30, educator's guide; $59, video; $15, family portraits). Tel: 510-923-9513; Fax: 510-923-9531; Web site: http://www.childcarehealth.org.
Publication Type: Guides - Classroom - Teacher; Non-Print Media
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Practitioners; Teachers
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A