This series focuses on defining lateral violence, signs and effects, as well as strategies for navigating experiences of lateral violence, and working towards preventing lateral violence by adopting a practice of lateral kindness informed by First Nations, Métis and Inuit knowledge systems. The intent is to provide content to support Indigenous Peoples in the early years sector.
Suggested Uses for Early Childhood Educators:
Professional Development Training: Use the series as part of a professional development program to educate staff about lateral violence, its impact, and strategies to counteract it. Incorporate activities such as case studies, group discussions, and reflection exercises to promote understanding and empathy.
Policy Review and Development: Utilize the series to guide the development or revision of workplace policies and practices that address lateral violence and promote lateral kindness. Encourage staff input to create a more inclusive, supportive environment that aligns with Indigenous knowledge systems.
Peer Support and Mentorship: Create peer support groups or mentorship programs that draw on the concepts from the series, encouraging educators to share experiences, offer support, and develop skills to manage and prevent lateral violence through practices of lateral kindness.
Reflection and Self-Assessment: Incorporate the series into individual and group reflection sessions where educators assess their behaviors, biases, and workplace dynamics, identifying areas where lateral kindness can be strengthened.
Cultural Competency Workshops: Integrate the series into workshops focused on cultural competency, allowing educators to deepen their understanding of Indigenous perspectives on relationships, communication, and conflict resolution.
Classroom and Community Engagement: Use the principles of lateral kindness from the series to inform classroom practices and community engagement strategies, fostering positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
Learning Outcomes for Early Childhood Educators:
Understanding of Lateral Violence: Educators will be able to define lateral violence, recognize its signs, and understand its effects on individuals and communities, particularly in the context of early childhood education.
Application of Indigenous Knowledge: Educators will learn to apply First Nations, Métis, and Inuit knowledge systems in addressing lateral violence, fostering a culturally informed approach to conflict resolution and relationship-building.
Development of Practical Strategies: Educators will acquire strategies for navigating and mitigating experiences of lateral violence, including communication techniques, empathy-building, and conflict resolution skills.
Promotion of Lateral Kindness: Educators will learn how to promote a culture of lateral kindness within their professional settings, creating a safer, more inclusive, and respectful environment for all staff, children, and families.
Improved Workplace Dynamics: Educators will enhance their ability to identify and address behaviors that contribute to lateral violence, fostering healthier workplace relationships and dynamics.
Empowerment to Act as Change Agents: Educators will feel empowered to advocate for policies and practices that prevent lateral violence and promote lateral kindness, contributing to systemic change within their organizations.
Enhanced Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity: Educators will gain a deeper awareness and sensitivity to the cultural contexts that shape experiences of lateral violence, enabling them to support Indigenous colleagues, children, and families more effectively.
Increased Capacity for Reflection and Self-Awareness: Educators will develop the ability to reflect critically on their own practices and biases, recognizing how they may inadvertently contribute to lateral violence and identifying ways to promote kindness and respect.
Fostering Inclusive Learning Environments: Educators will learn to create and maintain inclusive learning environments that prioritize kindness, respect, and safety, benefiting all children and families accessing early years services. Support for Indigenous Staff and Families: Educators will better understand how to support Indigenous colleagues and families by recognizing the unique challenges posed by lateral violence and advocating for a more just and equitable early years sector.