Introducing inclusion: Looking at diversity and adversity through an inclusive framework

Every child has the right to both feel included and be included. Educators play a vital role in ensuring that every child is aware of this right.

In this module, you will learn how an inclusive framework can support you, as an early childhood professional, in creating a culture of responsive and respectful relationships with children, their families, those you work with as well as the community you are a part of. You will also understand how to apply inclusive practice through critical reflection and how creating a culturally safe space can help children form positive attachments and develop a strong sense of belonging and identity.

By understanding the essential role inclusion plays in supporting those who have been impacted by adversity, you will be able to identify and address barriers caused by exclusion. Specifically, you will be able to:

• recognise exclusion
• understand why inclusion is important to removing exclusion as a barrier
• identify who is more likely to experience exclusion in Australia
• understand how exclusion normalises adversity and the cycle of disadvantage
• examine how inclusive practice can help you recognise and celebrate diversity.

This module will also delve into how early brain development, experiences and relationships can have a lifelong impact on children’s sense of belonging and connection to their community. It will explore the impact of trauma and explain how educators can support children facing both exclusion and adversity. The focus of this module is on building respectful, ethical and supportive partnerships with children, families and communities using a rights-based approach.

Learning outcomes

This course will help you:

• develop an understanding of exclusion, who experiences it and how inclusive practice can be used to remove this barrier
• advocate for children and families who may be experiencing exclusion and identify ways to foster inclusion
• examine how adversity affects inclusion and how your practice can promote inclusion.

Duration: 1 hour