Multicultural Education in Early Childhood : Issues and Challenges

Abstract

The writer is proposing that multicultural education be made an important component in early childhood education. The current trend in demography in most countries is one of increasing heterogeneity which gives rise to racial tensions and cultural conflicts. People need to come to terms with the fact that we need to co-exist in harmony, and this can only happen if there is genuine respect and acceptance of differences. Attitudinal and value systems can change only with knowledge and understanding. Education therefore plays a key role in bringing about these changes, and the best time to start this process of education is right from early childhood. This article explores the issues and challenges of doing just that. As crucial as it is that we embark on this path, we must be aware of the obstacles and diffi culties that lie in front of us in order to circumvent hurdles and strategise our efforts in the most optimum manner.