Diversity Enriches Us

The child as a social entity largely determines its own development in the process of social construction of children and adults. The project "Diversity Enriches Us" puts emphasis on the encouragement of several key... [ view full abstract ]

The child as a social entity largely determines its own development in the process of social construction of children and adults. The project "Diversity Enriches Us" puts emphasis on the encouragement of several key competences for lifelong learning: social and civic competence, initiative and entrepreneurship and cultural awareness and expression. The concept of development of the modern world and society as a whole brings out the need for the child's communication with its environment through interest. Lifelong learning, getting acquainted with various groups, institutions with various fields of action, participation at various events in our environment as well as dissemination of international projects, empower children's social competences and develop solidarity and cooperation. Learning by doing and expanding their knowledge enabled the children to respect the diversity of cultures and nations, teaching them to live with each other and their differences. Openness to the local community is one of the most important segments, allowing children and adults involved in the project to expand their knowledge. Parents and educators build their cooperation daily, which is crucial for social and emotional growth and development of preschool children. Partnership and cooperation enable inclusion of children and adults as equal partners and the child as an individual is guided along the path of becoming an active participant in the society, growing up and living by taking into account differences it faces throughout life. If only a few children keep environmental awareness in their life and build their social skills with respect for differences in all segments, then a lot has been done. The goal pursued is investing in the future. By establishing the basis for the future, a supportive environment is being created for experiential and cooperative learning through all sensory modalities.

Keywords: child, lifelong learning, cooperation, competence, diversity, parent, educator, local community