Children develop knowledgeable, confident self-identities and a positive sense of self-worth
Many things shape a child's identity and their understanding of how they fit into their world. Young children are developing confident and knowledgeable identities, and early learning professionals can support them through the process.
Help them learn about themselves. Use their own personality and life experiences as provocations for learning!
At every turn of your program planning, consider how you can incorporate your children's cultures, languages, personal curiosities and experiences at home.
Learning experiences
- Establish an intimate space for telling stories about yourselves, your homes and cultures. Encourage children to bring artifacts from home and use these as provocations for further learning.
- Paint a self-portrait. Draw a map of your home. Display these artworks on the walls so children can feel a sense of pride.
- Provide props and costumes to explore diverse identities and perspectives through drama and role play. Invite children to plan the play space with you. What do they need to pretend?
- Make an authentic commitment to learn words from children's home languages. Learn correct pronunciation, integrate them into daily routines, and teach them to their friends.
- Discuss self-esteem. What makes you feel good about yourself? Add each child’s answers to a whiteboard or poster.
Explore the EYLF
Explore other areas of Learning Outcome 1, Children have a strong sense of identity.
Explore all the EYLF Learning Outcomes, with links to children's interest topics, on The Interest Forest.