For this assignment I chose to explore the Sesame Workshop link. I loved Sesame Street as a kid! Sesame Street creates an environment that every classroom should strive to achieve. When considering diversity and Sesame Street I am struck by the realization that Muppets don’t have a specific color or look. No one would consider a red Elmo to be any better or worse than a green Oscar. Diversity is so welcome and present on Sesame Street that, while intentional, it is not obvious. If only our classrooms could all be this open! To be inclusive of all of the resources (our diverse students) in a way that seems effortless would be amazing. I understand that some teachers, myself sometimes included, are not always comfortable with immersing diversity into daily classroom activities, not because they or I am against the practice in any way, but because my own limited experience makes me fearful of stepping out of bounds to hurt a student or make him feel uncomfortable, obviously an outcome I would never want. Wouldn’t it be fun, though, if one day a teacher called roll by asking what each student had for dinner the night before? This simple activity could lead to great discussion about the differences and similarities in all of our families.
I think Sesame Street addresses a different type of diversity other than the multicultural variety. Sesame Street was originally begun to bring education to an underprivileged population. The show and its affiliated programs address a holistic form of learning. Not only do they address 1-2-3s and A-B-Cs, but they also focus on topics such as healthy living and respect. These may be lessons that every child might not otherwise receive at home. The show also encourages a sense of community where everyone is welcome, again, a welcome element in the classroom and school.
I admire the Sesame Street community. There is research, hard work, and passion that goes into the making of each show. Children laugh, sing, and dance along with the inviting content. Isn’t that the goal of every teacher? To approach learning with good background, preparedness, and enthusiasm to the effect that our students are engaged and almost “tricked” into enjoying the learning? Maybe we should all take a stroll down Sesame Street. Sunny day, sweepin’ the clouds away…
You make an excellent point-- there are other types of diversity than the ethnic brand! I have always appreciated Sesame Street's sensitivity to socioeconomic diversity.
ReplyDeleteYou might enjoy reading about Mr. Rogers. He was very mindful of children of poverty as well. For that reason he refused all endorsements except for some books and recordings. He did not want children to have to pay in order to have more access to Mr. Rogers.
Well done!