14/08/2021
I can not believe this statistic!Although this statistic is from 2018, I honestly don’t know whether we have raised that number over the last few years.
Whenever I have a conversation with others about the lack of male representation within the industry, the common belief seems to be that it comes down to money.
I would like to challenge this. Yes, money is important, but I think it is so much more. As humans, we strive for a place to belong, a place where feel we are meaningfully contributing to our fullest extent, and most of all a place where we can be ourselves without fear of judgement.
As a male educator myself, I have had a range of amazing experiences and have had the privilege to build great relationships with a multitude of children, families, and peers. I have (for the most part) found the early childhood education community to be positive, welcoming, and accepting of my choice in career.
Putting the positives aside, I have experienced and/or witnessed many situations that I believe impact males educators.
First and foremost I think I need to address the misperception that as a male, we lack the maternal instinct required to care for, nurture, and foster meaningful empathic relationships with children across their developmental journey.
This societal belief has led to many parents (and occasionally fellow staff members and administrators) doubting my intentions and capability, based purely on my ‘prescribed gender role.’
As a sector, we need to stop utilising our male educators as the token male. Just because an educator is a man does not mean that they should be encouraged to complete menial tasks such as cleaning the shed, tending to the animals, or playing sport with the children. There is great power in having males engage in emotional expression and the development of socio-emotional skills.
Here, at Barefoot Educators, we are passionate about finding innovative ways to address systemic issues such as this. We would love to hear any ideas to encourage a higher rate of male representation within this industry!
