Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/elevating-diversity-and-disability-in-childrens-literature/5027444/
Early childhood environments have seen an increase in children from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences. Three million children (4.3 percent) with a disability live in the United States (Young & Crankshaw, 2021). American Indian and Alaska Native and Black/African American children comprise the highest disability racial groups, 5.9 percent, and 5.1 percent, respectively (Young & Crankshaw, 2021). This increase has required early childhood centers and educators to create environments more reflective of the students they serve, including students with disabilities. These environments provide learning experiences that meet children’s need for positive self-identity development, thus supporting cognitive, language, physical, social, and emotional development.
Developing Cultural and Disability Identity
In the not-so-distant past, individuals with disabilities were negatively perceived by society and often hidden away in institutions or kept at home. Since the mid-20th century, children with disabilities and families are increasingly included when schools consider equity, inclusion, and diversity initiatives. At many schools, there are accommodations available in some form, and a general understanding of disability rights. Nonetheless, children of color with disabilities are not considered intentionally in the care environment. Supports that are culture-affirming and consider the specific needs of families of color are less available. Centers and educators may not be ...