Why is identity important to a child
Early Years Learning Framework1.0 Children have a strong sense of identity Children learn about themselves and construct their own identity within the context of their families and communities. This includes their relationships with people, places and things and the actions and responses of others. Identity is not fixed. It is shaped by experiences. When children have positive experiences they develop an understanding of themselves as significant and respected, and feel a sense of belonging. Relationships are the foundations for the construction of identity – ‘who I am’, ‘how I belong’ and ‘what is my influence?’ Show
In early childhood settings children develop a sense of belonging when they feel accepted, develop attachments and trust those that care for them. As children are developing their sense of identity, they explore different aspects of it (physical, social, emotional, spiritual, cognitive), through their play and their relationships. When children feel safe, secure and supported they grow in confidence to explore and learn. The concept of being reminds educators to focus on children in the here and now, and of the importance of children’s right to be a child and experience the joy of childhood. Being involves children developing an awareness of their social and cultural heritage, of gender and their significance in their world. Becoming includes children building and shaping their identity through their evolving experiences and relationships which include change and transitions. Children are always learning about the impact of their personal beliefs and values. Children’s agency, as well as guidance, care and teaching by families and educators shape children’s experiences of becoming. 1.1 Children feel safe, secure, and supportedThis is evident, for example, when children:
Educators promote this learning, for example, when they:
1.2 Children develop their emerging autonomy, inter-dependence, resilience and sense of agencyThis is evident, for example, when children:
Educators promote this learning, for example, when they:
1.3 Children develop knowledgeable and confident self identitiesThis is evident, for example, when children:
Educators promote this learning, for example, when they:
1.4 Children learn to interact in relation to others with care, empathy and respectThis is evident, for example, when children:
Educators promote this learning, for example, when they:
Why is an identity important?This set of characteristics allows you to be definitively and uniquely recognisable. Identity plays an important role in empowering individuals to exercise their rights and responsibilities fairly and equitably in a modern society.
What makes identity is so important in development?Social identification is important because it influences how people see themselves and how they interact with others. If people have a positive view of their identity within a group, they are more likely to relate well to others in that group and feel positive emotions about themselves.
How does a child define their identity?Your child's identity is also shaped. by the ways that you and others respond to them. As they grow, most children show interest in being part of a group and playing with others. They become increasingly confident in different social situations and learn that their actions can have effects on themselves and others.
What helps a child form their identity?A strong and positive feeling about their parents and grandparents helps children feel safe and confident about themselves and their roots. Having a sense of group identity as well as personal identity also helps a child feel a sense of belonging. Group identity is constructed in many different ways.
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