Social inclusion refers to creating environments in which everyone belongs. This is done through valuing, recognising and celebrating diversity and what makes each person unique, while also connecting as people with a unified sense of togetherness. In an inclusive environment, each person feels a sense of belonging, and children learn the value of social inclusion.
Adaptations to the environment are routinely made to support everyone to belong. Unity and togetherness can be strengthened when each person’s contribution is acknowledged and when the perspectives or point of view of others are considered by everyone. All people are respected even if they do not share the same perspective.
Social action
Social action includes the ways people stand up for their own rights and the rights of others, and the ways we defend, care for and protect te taiao, the natural world. Some of the ways children display social action in an education setting include showing empathy for those who are upset or experiencing sadness, protecting or standing up for others when someone is trying to hurt them, and challenging beliefs or actions that separate or discriminate against people. Long standing and systemic discrimination and oppression of people require actions to actively dismantle inequities and injustices. For example, anti-racism includes understanding the ways racial inequities are sustained and taking actions and fostering beliefs that oppose racism, as well as promoting acceptance and justice. Children can also be deeply engaged in social efforts to defend and care for te taiao. It is vitally important that children are given opportunities to build a relationship with te taiao so that they feel connected to and actively responsible for the natural world as they grow up.
Through social inclusion and action mokopuna are aware of the impact their beliefs and behaviours have on others and the natural world and take actions to be respectful and support each other and our world.
Social inclusion