Trans Children in Today's Schools by Aidan Key

Author:Aidan Key
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Published: 2023-08-15T00:00:00+00:00

Addressing What Is New, Unknown, or Unfamiliar

If classroom conversations about diversity and privilege are new to you, that’s okay. Don’t be too intimidated. Instead, step in! Do not assume that young children cannot understand—they can and regularly do.4 The content is relevant to all children of any age. Teachers can share that some conversations are new to them, too. What student wouldn’t find that refreshing?! Incorporating difference—whether that involves different people, new knowledge, and/or changing communities—provides opportunity and upheaval.

Know that these unfamiliar topics can cause discomfort for both teachers and students. This may be especially true for older students who have begun to form opinions about the outside world and their own place within it. It is okay to acknowledge that discomfort. We can acknowledge any discomfort we might have while celebrating a new, unfolding chapter. Do not pass judgment on a student (or yourself) for these feelings. Instead, emphasize mutually respectful ways of engaging in discussions of difference, diversity, and privilege. If feelings of discomfort, even resistance or denial, can be acknowledged as an important part of learning, the likelihood of students staying engaged is much higher. Engaging the children in a collaborative learning endeavor that acknowledges that newness—one that asks everyone to step into a process of discovery—allows everyone to experience a dynamic, thought-provoking conversation that enhances critical thinking skills.

Of course, there is much more to say regarding classroom dialogues that address privilege and disparity than can be addressed in this book. There are many books, articles, films, and other resources that you (or the students) may wish to incorporate. These tools will serve you well as you seek to demonstrate universal themes to which all students can relate.

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