The Importance of Staff Diversity in Childcare

Since the introduction of affirmative action in the 1960's, diversity has become a growing concern. Diversity has also caused employers to become more aware of its necessity in the work environment. In a society that is growing more diverse by the day, businesses are forced to recognize the need for diversity in their overall management practices. Working in the childcare business has taught this author the importance of diversity among my staff and our classrooms. The services that are provided reach all types of families, cultures, and races. But the vast majority of childcare centers tend to lack diversity in their staff. The author of this paper intends to show directors of childcare facilities that diversity is important in order to meet the needs of their clients for three primary reasons: to incorporate all walks of life in an ever-changing society, to develop clear communication between staff and parents, and to enhance the learning environment for the children being taught. Diversity has become a part of our everyday society and culture. As childcare providers it is imperative that directors become aware of the constant change and equip themselves with the knowledge needed to meet the needs of the current society. According to Pearson (2000), “...early childhood educators and caregivers are faced with the dilemma of meeting the needs of an ever-changing population. As the population becomes more diverse, classrooms are beginning to reflect the larger population. In response to the expanding needs of young students, instructors and caregivers increasingly are trying to incorporate multiculturalism into their class curricula” (p. 2). As our society continues to transform, childcare centers must constantly change and incorporate the current needs of their parents and children. A childcare center