INTEGRATING DEMOCRATIC PRINCIPLES IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION THROUGH AN ART PROGRAM FOR GENDER EQUALITY

Charikleia Pitsou, Ariadni Theocharidi

Abstract


Early childhood education is a foundational period for children. The early years are crucial for the development of social values, and teaching democratic principles can have a significant impact on young children’s social and emotional growth. Using art as a medium of expression and as an educational tool provides young learners with a touching and engaging experience to explore democratic principles. By integrating artistic activities with educational objectives, educators can address deeply rooted societal norms and foster a sense of equity, empathy, and inclusivity in young minds. All in all, through an exploration of theoretical frameworks and having art as a tool, this paper proposes a program which has been designed and implemented in pre-primary education to promote gender equality and challenge traditional gender norms, fostering an inclusive, democratic environment in the classroom. The implementation of the program shows that in the beginning, children discern the conventional roles of their parents within the familial structure, and by the conclusion of the program, a transformation in their viewpoints is evident through drawing, demonstrating a profound comprehension.

 

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kindergarten, democracy, gender disparities, gender roles, art program

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.46827/ejae.v9i2.5725

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