“…The most valuable framework for understanding the poor mental health outcomes and mental health inequities in this country is one of social injustice.” (‘Dismantle Social Injustice’, By Ruth S. Shim, Sarah Y. Vinson March 29, 2021 Scientific American)
One of the hottest current political topics is whether or not we should be teaching about social justice issues in our schools, and in particular, to young children. What benefit is there, and how do we know that they’re not too young?
Watch any playground game and we can see that young children are keenly interested in fairness, rules, and ensuring equitable treatment for all. While we shouldn’t bombard them with lessons that require a higher level of thinking, it is never too early to have open conversations with children about history, how we treat others, creating equitable systems, and ensuring that everyone has what they need to succeed.
“Recently, several prominent national education organizations—including the NEA, AERA, AFT, and NCTE—have called for addressing equity in schools and society, specifically recommending that we highlight systemic patterns of racism and educational equity that impact students, and that educators and school leaders need training and support to do that.” (Teaching Young Children About Bias, Diversity, and Social Justice, By Jinnie Spiegler)
Bringing awareness to difference, equity, and social justice as a norm, rather than a radical idea, will positively affect the mental (and physical!) health of ALL students, sending an early message that they are seen, heard, and that they are important.
Resources: https://www.equityliteracy.org/educational-equity-resources
For additional support, contact Jill Thomas in our Mental Health Services Dept., at jill.thomas@lausd.net.
