Talking about Being an Ally with Kindergarteners
Contributor: Rebecca Williams
In my 20+ years as an early childhood teacher, I have found that talking to 4 and 5 year olds about being a really good friend, being an ally, is one of the most important things that I can do. In my Kindergarten classroom, we define 'ally' as 'someone who supports or stands up for you'. We spend a lot of time talking about what this means and why it is not only important, but critical to creating and sustaining a just and fair world.
It is also not just a one time conversation. It is something we talk about and continue to go back to over and over again. We do role plays so that students can practice what it sounds like, what words to use, what to say when they stand up for someone, when they see something that is not fair or when they see that someone has not been treated with kindness. I believe this supports where they are at developmentally while laying a foundation for children who see themselves as contributors to social transformation and as members of an interconnected community.
One of the most tangible ways to talk about being an ally is of course through read-alouds. I make certain that the read alouds are conversations. As I read the books with Kindergarteners, I will often ask:
“How do you think this character is feeling?”
“What do you think about what is happening?”
“How could you be an ally if you saw this happening?”
“Why do you think it might be scary to say something/speak out?”
“Can you think of a time when you were afraid to say something/speak out even when you thought you should?”
“Have you ever stood up for someone (or been an ally)?”
Below are a few of my favorite read alouds that lend themselves to talking with kids about being an ally.
Wings by Christopher Myers
A book about a boy who has beautiful wings, although he gets made fun of for them. There is a girl in the book who loves his wings but is afraid to stick up for him and finally does.
Say Something by Peter H. Reynolds
This book talks about how everyone has a voice and there are so many different ways to say something. There are a few examples of being an ally to someone, and how that can be scary. It teaches kids that they have the power to make a difference and change the world.
Be Kind by Pat Zietlow Miller
A book about a little girl who sees a friend upset and embarrassed after being laughed at by classmates. She wants to make her friend feel better but doesn’t know how. She questions what it means to be kind. A good book to have a discussion about kindness and why it can feel hard to stand up for someone.
One by Kathryn Otoshi
A book about standing up for yourself, standing up for a friend, being brave, and acceptance.
I Walk With Vanessa by Kerascoët
A wordless book about a little girl who is new to a school. Many ignore her and are unkind to her. Another little girl finally decides to include her and walks her to school - soon some of the other kids join with them and they all walk together. It shows how a simple act can make a big difference.