If it is private (people pay for services), then you can ask or poll parents, because they can voice their displeasure by disenrolling, but if you get any public money I wouldn't do religious oriented activities, even a poll in my opinion is not appropriate.
If everyone is Christian and says they want Santa and you're not, then how does it look if you say no? It looks horrible, people say they are tolerant, but many people are not and will make you pay. You're forced owing to circumstances to laugh and smile about thing you're not comfortable with.
As the kid who was different, I was forced to smile and play along with many things I was not comfortable with for "the greater good."
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Lark Sontag
MA, Early Childhood Education
Alumna Pacific Oaks College
Trainer, Adjunct Early Childhood Education Faculty, and Early Childhood Education contributor to 30seconds
New York Metro
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Original Message:
Sent: 12-02-2018 11:06 PM
From: Lacey Sessions
Subject: Holidays
Hello,
I run a preschool and I am looking for some advice/direction.I feel torn around the holidays (as far as curriculum is concerned). I understand that not everyone celebrates the same holidays, nor celebrates in the same way and some families do not celebrate any holidays. I respect all of those choices. I want to provide an anti-bias education/environment. I also believe holidays shouldn't be ignored. This can be a time for children to share a meaningful part of themselves. I have had children talking about Christmas for days now. I know my students and their families- all of them choose to celebrate Christmas. With that being said, would it be inappropriate to read Christmas books, sing Christmas songs and have some "holiday themed" free choice activities available in the class? I wouldn't teach about Santa or the religious aspect. I can also provide books and songs regarding other December holidays for the children to explore. I know at ages 3-5 they're still in an egocentric development stage, so talking about other celebrations may not be the most effective.I did that last year and not sure about it. Anyway, I would appreciate any type of feedback. I see both sides and want to do what is best for the children and best early childhood education practice. Thank you!
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Lacey
Director/Head Teacher
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