Why Pride Matters in Early Childhood Education: Nurturing Inclusion, Belonging, and Love from the Start
Every June, we celebrate Pride Month—a time to honour the LGBTQ+ community's history, contributions, and ongoing fight for rights and inclusion. While Pride is often associated with parades and rainbow flags, its meaning runs much deeper, especially in the context of early childhood education. For young children, Pride is about learning the values of respect, love, empathy, and belonging.
In early years settings and homes, celebrating Pride in a developmentally appropriate way is an opportunity to model inclusive practices, affirm diverse family structures, and foster social-emotional learning. Together, parents and educators can lay the foundation for safe, inclusive spaces where every child feels seen, valued, and loved—just as they are.
What is Pride Month and Why Do We Observe It?
Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall Uprising in June 1969 and celebrates the resilience, visibility, and contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities. It is also a time to advocate for equality and challenge discrimination.
In early childhood spaces, observing Pride is not about teaching sexuality—it’s about representation, identity, kindness, and community. For many children, Pride may be their first introduction to ideas of family diversity, inclusion, and being true to who you are.
Why Pride Belongs in Early Childhood Education
Children are naturally open, curious, and accepting. The early years are a critical window for shaping attitudes about themselves and others. By including stories, language, and classroom experiences that reflect a range of identities and family structures, educators and caregivers help children:
- Understand and accept diversity
- Develop empathy and emotional intelligence
- Build positive self-esteem
- Recognize and challenge bias or exclusion
For children from LGBTQ+ families—or those who may one day identify as LGBTQ+ themselves—this early affirmation is especially meaningful. It tells them they belong.
Age-Appropriate Ways to Introduce Pride in the Early Years
1. Read Inclusive Children’s Books
Representation matters. Choose books that show diverse family structures, gender expression, and inclusive messages in a developmentally appropriate way. Some beautiful options include:
- Love Makes a Family by Sophie Beer
- Julian Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love
- A Plan for Pops by Heather Smith
- Pink is for Boys by Robb Pearlman
Use these stories to spark conversations about love, kindness, and what makes families special.
2. Use Inclusive Language
Small shifts in language can make a big impact. Say “grown-ups” or “caregivers” instead of assuming “moms and dads.” Use children’s chosen names and pronouns. These simple actions model respect and acceptance.
3. Celebrate All Kinds of Families
Invite children to share photos or drawings of the people who care for them. Celebrate the uniqueness of each family—whether it includes two moms, two dads, grandparents, foster parents, or any other constellation.
4. Get Creative with Rainbows and Art
Explore the colours of the rainbow in sensory or art activities and talk about how each colour is different but beautiful together. This symbolism can help children understand diversity, unity, and love.
5. Promote Classroom Belonging
Create a classroom culture where every child is affirmed, every question is welcomed, and every story is safe to share. This includes displaying inclusive books, posters, and resources that represent the full spectrum of humanity.
Download our free pride posters here
How Families Can Support Learning About Pride at Home
- Talk openly about love, kindness, and acceptance using age-appropriate language
- Introduce books or shows that represent diverse families and identities
- Attend local Pride events that are family-friendly, like parades, picnics, or storytimes
- Model inclusive language and celebrate diversity in your community
- Encourage empathy and curiosity when children ask questions about identity or family structures
Remember: your child is always learning by watching how you talk about others, react to differences, and lead with love.
Why This Matters for All Children
Celebrating Pride in early childhood is not just for LGBTQ+ families—it benefits everyone. Inclusive learning environments help children:
- Understand that there is no one way to be a family
- Feel confident expressing themselves
- Grow up to be accepting, open-minded, and compassionate
- Contribute to a society where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued
When we celebrate Pride in early childhood education, we’re doing more than honouring a movement—we’re nurturing a generation of children who believe in equity, kindness, and belonging. We’re showing them that every child matters, every family matters, and that love is something to be celebrated in all its forms.
Let’s continue to make our classrooms and homes places where children learn to be proud of who they are—and proud to stand beside others in kindness, curiosity, and care.