Discrimination and Children Essay

This Act was put in place to protect individuals so they will not be discriminated against age, gender, disability, race, religion, sex, civil partnership, sexual orientation. We must give a child an equal chance to participate and make appropriate resources available to reach their full potential. Children are unique individuals and have the right to be treated fairly with equal respect. Disability Discrimination Act 1995-2005 When children with disabilities are discriminated against this causes them to loose confidence and are made to feel isolated. This policy was put in place to protect them for being disadvantaged. They should not be treated less favourably that non-disabled student without justification. They are entitled to have adjustment made for the purpose of education and association. 2.3 Evaluate how own attitudes, values and behaviour could impact on work with children and people. In my setting, at Al-Ameen primary school every one has their own values and opinions but share the same belief and this is vital in making personalities. However as professionals working with children we must have a diverse approach. I never make sudden judgement on people or children. I am placid natured so I give children time to shine through and understand the objective. I present myself as a positive role model. As a professional working with children it is important that our attitude reflect our opinion and belief.eg. Children pray after lunchtime and I as a TA I supervise the children when they pray. However I don’t pray at that time so I never discourage them, they choose to for themselves to participate. That is their opinion and belief as an individual. It is also important I do not let my own personal opinion have an impact on the child’s judgment. 2.4 Explain how to promote anti discriminatory practice in work with children and young people. At my setting we have children from different backgrounds and cultures. In every day practice and to avoid anti discrimination we must show interest in learning about other cultures, lifestyles and work on building positive relationships. We also have a student from France who has a language barrier so I would recognise this and make provisions so that he/she is not discriminated in any way such as helping the children to write or draw in their books. Speak slowly, or use French words. When I started in year three I noticed some children were struggling with thick pencil so I made the teacher aware of this and changed to thin pencil and now we notice children enjoy writing. Moving the tables around to give children easy access. Moving the children closer to the board or reading out the questions. I would give some children extra time to complete the set task. This would ensure all children hav e the same opportunity to learn and be included in all aspects of school life. 2.5 Explain how to challenge discrimination The discrimination must always be challenged, according to the school policies, this is done through the behaviour policy, equal opportunity or Anti-bulling policy. Staff must follow the policies and procedures in place for discrimination. It has to be dealt with immediately. This may need to be recorded in a incident book. The discriminatory behaviour and comments may also need to be recorded. Sometimes children may say something without understanding the implication of their comments in such cases they must be made aware that such comments would be reported. They should be reminded that everyone in the school should be treated fairly and respectfully. If I heard a white girl making comments to a black girl such as† you can’t be queen you are black†. I would explain to that child that her remarks are hurtful and that every one has the right to be treated fairly so you should not judge people by the colour of their skin. Three boys tell a girl â€Å"you can’t help build the wall it’s men’s work†. As a TA I would go and talk to the three boys by asking why they think that and where they heard it . I would tell them that every one should be treated equally weather they are a boy or girl because we can all do the same job. Eg. Your mum cooks and she is a women but when you go to restaurants why are there men who are chefs. When you go to hospital there are men who are nurses. 2.1 Explain ways in which children and young people can experience prejudice and discrimination There are many different ways in which children and young people can experience prejudice and discrimination at school. One way might be trying to fit in with the expected appearances and behaviour. They may face discrimination or even be bullied. If a child is deprived of basic necessities like not having the enough food, looking untidy, not correct school uniform then this could lead to the child being discriminated against by other children. Some children may face sexism because boys may not include girls in certain activities eg. When a boy’s play with ball they think girls do not play with a ball. Children from other cultural backgrounds may not play with other children because they should only play with children from same background. Children with disabilities may not be involved in an activity with other children that could mean they have been discriminated against.