Children understand more than you know, and teaching them aboutgender-neutrality from a young age can make them aware and empathetic, says Rohan Parikh
When a child is born, their gender already defines what they wear and how they need to behave in society. Sadly, this conditioning becomes the norm and gets ingrained in the way kids live and interact with others. Moreover, they carry this mindset to school, which paves the way for gender discrimination and stereotypical behaviour, precisely why schools need to step up and strip away these gender norms.
Before these thoughts processes become rigid practices, teachers need to adopt a gender-neutral setting, a learning environment that is inclusive to all. So, where do you start? Fostering a learning environment that is welcoming and supportive. The journey to nurturing an inclusive learning culture may be long and challenging. But it starts with you.
For children, school is a cocoon where they feel safe and happy. Moreover, a child’s mind is like a clean slate, waiting to explore and absorb. Teachers can mould their thinking and encourage them to be the best version of themselves. When teachers reflect on their own experiences, they tend to build a learning culture that is inclusive and inviting. So, how can one be more sensitive towards the way gender is presented or spoken of in classrooms? Championing gender equality techniques to kickstart a new era of learning.
Knowing the students well: Taking the time to learn about a child’s interests, hobbies, and background can ensure that they feel included. When teachers take an interest in knowing a child, they forge a bond with them. Through constant encouragement and motivation, children feel comfortable and also start respecting those around them.
Going beyond the binaries: One of the most effective ways to expand a child’s thinking on gender equality is by breaking the binaries. When referring to children in the classroom, teachers can use gender-neutral pronouns like ‘they, them, their, everyone’ instead of ‘he, she or guys’. Using inclusive language lays the foundation for an equal learning atmosphere.
Eliminating assumptions: Children tend to pick up a habit or a belief very quickly. Thus, teachers need to be aware of the language they use in class. They need to ensure that they don’t make any assumptions about someone’s ability, personality, or profession. Including role reversal techniques (like women in construction or men doing a household chore) challenges these assumptions, forces them to question the norms, and promotes gender equality among students.
Giving them a voice: Listening is a skill that not many tend to possess, but it is a vital skill. Teachers need to be good listeners, give students the suitable space to express their concerns, and share their experiences. This creates a gender-inclusive learning environment where students thrive and respect the opposite gender.
Being open to feedback: Continuous evaluation leads to consistent learning. Making the classroom open for feedback and discussions is a great way to keep growing. When teachers start involving children, the whole atmosphere transforms, and kids start thriving in a more open and inclusive environment.
Encouraging project-based learning: Pairing up boys and girls for a group project can be a great icebreaker. Once they become a team and work together on projects, they understand the nuances of individual behaviour and respect each other more.
Re-visiting the curriculum: Teachers can re-visit the curriculum to ensure that it includes stories and voices of people from all walks of life. Making the curriculum more inclusive by featuring a more gender-aware syllabus can be a great place to start.
Gender equality is not just about listening and understanding; it is more about respecting and accepting. Children understand more than you know, and teaching them about gender-neutrality from a young age can make them more aware and empathetic.
(The writer is the Managing Director of The Green Acres Academy.)