Culture and Diversity
The Importance of Creating a Sense of Belonging for MLL
In this engaging 30-minute video, Karen Nemeth talks about the role a sense of belonging plays in early learning for Multi Language Learners (MLLs). Listen in as she explains how belonging is key to "the science, language and heart of how children learn."
West and East, Cultural Differences: Documentary
This documentary examines the differences in Eastern and Western reasoning and learning, that will give you a better understanding how the cultures differ from East to West. Part 1 includes discussion on how children learn and offers parenting examples.
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion CNC Learning Moments
At its core, CNC is responsive and inclusive, and should be delivered with the utmost respect and appreciation for culture and diversity.
We worked with professor and early childhood, culture, and diversity expert, Barbara Kaiser, to develop this new Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) CNC Learning Moments series. These quick videos are designed to fit your schedule, introduce core EDI concepts, and spark meaningful reflections for your CNC team.
The first three videos are now available:
- Embracing Culture as an Asset
- Opening Hearts and Minds: Uncovering Hidden Bias
- Handling Children’s Curiosity: Addressing Differences with Empathy
If you’re looking to dive deeper into any of these topics, below each video, you’ll also find a list of resource links to extend your learning and further support your CNC team.
Intégrer la diversité – Julie Dotsch
La diversité est définie comme étant tout ce qui rend les êtres humains uniques. La diversité influ•ence bien des choses : comment nous jugeons les autres, comment la société valorise les individus et comment chacun réussit dans la vie. Elle influence également l’image que l’on a de soi ainsi que les attentes que l’on a de soi-même, de nos enfants et de nos familles. Tous les enfants ont le droit d’être respectés et d’avoir des programmes adaptés à leurs capacités, à leur style d’apprentissage et aux valeurs de leur famille.
La diversité et ses catégories
Il y a 12 catégories de diversité utilisées pour décrire une personne.
- Capacités – Différentes capacités physiques ou développementales.
- Âge – Jugement perçu et réel porté sur l’âge (p. ex., mère adolescente, vieillard).
- Apparence – Différentes grandeurs et grosseurs, perceptions de la beauté.
- Croyances – Religions, spiritualité, pratiques d’éducation des enfants, valeurs familiales.
- Casier judiciaire – Cette catégorie inclut les réfugiés politiques qui ont été emprisonnés par le passé.
- Culture – Traditions, langues, valeurs communes, perceptions, pratiques.
- Composition de la famille – Qui sont les membres de la famille, quels sont les rôles dans la famille et tout changement récent.
- Sexe – Si une personne est de sexe masculin ou féminin, ou transgenre.
How did Black History Month come to be?
February is Black History Month! This is a time to celebrate and remember all the ways that Black Canadians have contributed to Canada’s history and culture. Throughout February, this celebration provides a chance to learn about African cultures.
RAISED between Cultures: Video and reflection guidebook for intercultural practice in the early years
The RAISED Between Cultures model was designed to promote intercultural practice and reflection when working with culturally diverse children and families. The video and guidebook highlight the importance of possessing a deep understanding of cultural backgrounds, experiences, and migration challenges, as well as family strengths to support children's learning and development.
It’s Multicultural Children’s Book Day!
The goal of Multicultural Children’s Book Day is to raise awareness for the kid’s books that celebrate diversity and get more of these books into classrooms, libraries and collections. Here's a list of books and activities... maybe you'll find a new favourite!
Storybooks Canada — Free Multilingual Stories
Storybooks Canada is a free open educational resource that offers beautifully illustrated children’s stories in text and audio, available in English, French, and 30 of the most commonly spoken languages in Canada. These stories come from the African Storybook collection and have been carefully adapted to reflect themes that resonate with children across diverse communities.
Belonging Begins with Us: Building Deeper Relationships in CNC Programs
Tammy Nucci explores how educators can create trusting, inclusive relationships with children, families, and peers—regardless of language or background. Drawing on trauma-informed care, culturally sustaining practices, and early childhood best practices, participants will learn strategies to design routines and environments that promote safety, respect, and belonging. This session offers practical tools and reflective discussion to help build relationships rooted in empathy and inclusion.
Handouts:
Workshop Outline
Learner Journal
Introduction to Spoken Language Interpreting for CNC Staff
Jane Langes from the E-Quality Communication Centre of Excellence explores the roles and responsibilities of professional, volunteer, and workplace interpreters. Participants will learn about standards of practice, ethical principles, accuracy, sight translation, and how to recognize when an assignment exceeds their skills. This session provides practical guidance for anyone called upon to interpret or provide language support in the workplace.
Handout: Working with Interpreters