Model for Developing Respect for Diversity at Early and Preschool Age

Abstract

Respect for diversity implies acceptance and respect for living beings and their dignity, and the realisation of justice as a principle of life. This includes a high level of sensitivity of adults for children and the sensitization of children for others: peers, family members, environment, and the overall living environment. It is about shaping the educational approach based on accepting the rights of people to freely express their own identity and understand their own rights, obligations, and responsibilities, as well as the rights, obligations, and responsibilities of others. Upon application of programmes and targeted activities in kindergartens, children learn to include, respect and accept members of various vulnerable groups. This paper presents how the application of the model for development of respect for diversity contributes to the increasing importance of understanding and respect for differences among parents and children of early and preschool age. This is done by evaluating the application of the Respect for Diversity and Peace Building manual on a sample of children and parents from 41 preschools which operate in the following four countries: Serbia (16 preschool institutions, 20 educational groups), Croatia (11 preschool institutions, 14 educational groups), Montenegro (3 preschools, 6 educational groups), and Macedonia (11 preschool institutions, 16 educational groups). The results show that early and preschool-age children are willing to communicate with children of different characteristics and that this choice is not affected by the identity of the children belonging to vulnerable groups (such as Roma children and children with development difficulties). In addition, it was found that parents recognise the importance of early and preschool education, and aim to increase respect for diversity. They also understand the importance of family education in this process. The model that was applied led to statistically significant differences between children and parents towards diversity.