Part 1: Overcoming Bias

In order to be an effective early childhood educator and anti-bias advocate, it is necessary, first and foremost, to recognize and challenge ones own biases. While this may not seem difficult on a surface level, there are, in fact, various strategies and practices for recognizing the overt and more subtle or covert biases one may possess.

In two to three pages, address the following:

• Describe yourself, including any relevant information about your own social identity and culture. Explain how your own identity and/or culture might influence your professional practice. If applicable, share your own experiences with privilege, oppression, and/or bias.
• Identify three strategies that you will use in order to explore and overcome your own biases.
• Explain why you chose these strategies and how exploring and overcoming your own biases can positively impact the children and families with whom you work.