Anti-bias is not simply a theory at Pacific
Oaks, it is a daily way of life. Our goal is to cultivate an educational
environment where children value who they are and respect differences in
others. We encourage children to think critically about bias in all of its
forms (ethnicity, race, gender, class, abilities, etc.); and we empower
them to stand up for themselves and for others in the face of bias. We
believe that our students will be the future change makers in our society.
The anti-bias curriculum
emerges in each program in concert with the children’s development. It is explicitly
implemented both as an integral part of social relationships and as a
viewpoint from which other curriculum is developed. Books, music, and classroom
materials that reflect a sense of diversity and non-stereotypical images
are key components of learning and issues of social justice are integrated as
much as possible into daily activities.
In
each of our programs, children are able to see themselves and their families
reflected within our environment in the selection of children’s books, dramatic
play props, puzzles, dolls, music, posters, and other classroom materials.
They learn to be a good friend, to express empathy and compassion,
to be inclusive of others, and to interact comfortably with people different
from themselves. Children develop critical thinking skills and are able to recognize stereotypes
and unfair images, challenge bias, and create social change.