Building an AntiRacist Early Childhood Environment: Adventures in Learning with McNeilly Center Executive Director Alyssa Dituro

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If we want to be the change in the world as the adult, first we have to look at ourselves and say, this is something we value, and then tell our children that we value that because we want every child to be seen, heard, and valued. We want every family to be seen, heard and valued. 

In this episode of the Adventures in Learning podcast, Dr. Diane chats with Alyssa Dituro, executive director of the McNeilly Center for Children in Nashville. Alyssa is an early childhood expert with more than ten years experience directing high quality early childhood programs. Join us as we chat about the importance of antiracist education and what that looks like in an early childhood setting. We also share a range of beautiful picture books designed to help every child feel accepted, seen, and loved. Plus, visit www.drdianeadventures.com for the full show notes, booklists, and resources designed to help you on your antiracist education journey. You can see the video of the episode here. You can follow Alyssa Dituro on Linked In, Instagram, or Facebook.

[01:21] How did you get to where you are today?
[03:43] What is the McNeilly Center?
[07:19] Little Scientists -- Building STEAM Connections with Multicultural Books
[14:00] Why is it important for us to create antiracist multicultural classroom communities?
[18:12] Providing resources for challenging  conversations
[19:06] How do you set up an antiracist preschool?
[26:10] Helping families do the work
[28:49] Favorite picture books to share: Antiracist Baby, Skin Like Mine, Watch Me: A Story of Immigration and Inspiration, Princess Hair, I Am Every Good Thing, Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut, Snow in Jerusalem,  The Skin You Live In
[33:25] Community collaborations and giving ourselves grace on the journey

Want to learn more? Here are some helpful resources.
Embrace Race
Social Justice Resources

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*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.