Activity 1.1 | Thinking About Inclusion

Equity looks at both fairness and equality. We want equal opportunities for children, for each other but we also want fairness. We want our programs to welcome everyone which may mean that we support people at the level that works for them and us. Stopping a child from eating something from their lunch because snack only happens at a certain time may penalize a child who does not have time for breakfast in the morning and is truly hungry. Knowing that a family newly arrived in Canada may need time to settle in and help them to understand how child care works and provide extra support to their child who may not understand English.

Figure 1

Distinguishing between equality and equity, a misleading representation

Note. Figure 1.9 Global education monitoring report, 2020: Inclusion and education: All means all (UNESCO, 2020, p. 11). 

Reflect

Take a moment to study Figure 1, which shows the difference between equality and equity.

Now, think about a time when a child in your program needed something different to thrive, perhaps extra emotional support, food outside of designated times, or help understanding classroom routines.

How does this figure help you reflect on your role in removing barriers for children and families?

What is one small shift you could make in your practice or program that would move you from "equal" treatment to more equitable support?

Reference

UNESCO (2020). Global education monitoring report, 2020: Inclusion and education: all means all. CC-BY.  https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000373718