Women’s Day: What Are Rights?
Yesterday, the children in our classroom noticed that "Women's Day" was added to our March calendar. When they asked what it was about, I encouraged them to share their thoughts.
Ezra said “I know! A long time ago, boys can work but girls cannot. Girls only stay at home. So girls didn't have money. But now girls can go to work and have money. So women's day is for the girl and women to have a holiday so they can rest at home.”
With Ezra's story in mind, the next day I made deliberate remarks to the children in the classroom. As they arrived, I said, "Let's have all the boys line up on this side, and all the girls on that side." During circle time, when some of the girls were sitting in front, I said, "Today, only the boys can sit in front." Surprisingly, some children went along with it, but some expressed their displeasure at these sudden and unjust changes.
Stella said, 'No, I am going to play at the cars because I want to.'
Eachern said, 'That's unfair, Ms Darleen.'
Anaay said, 'Yea, what if I wanted to play with Anushaa? She's my friend.'
I then ask the children if they remember Ezra's story yesterday. Stella retold the story to her friends.
To help the children understand the importance of rights, I read them a story about Emmeline Pankhurst, a remarkable woman who fought for women's suffrage. Her bravery and determination led to significant changes in the world. After the story, I asked the children what rights meant to them.
Women who help the environment
I showed the children pictures of some women who were environmentalists. Mikaela recognized Greta Thunberg and said, "That's the girl who helps with global warming." Curious, I asked Mikaela to explain what global warming is. She responded, "When people cut down trees, it makes the earth hotter. Then, the ice melts, and the penguins lose their homes. Penguins are endangered, you know."
Another picture was of Jane Goodall, and Elle exclaimed, "I remember this lady's story! She works with chimpanzees." I then read "Conservation with Jane Goodall" by Maureen McQuerry. After the book, the children talked about animals and their habitats, and how they are endangered. So, I asked them, "What can we do to make the world a better place for animals?
