McCormick Institute for Early Childhood

BY Daria Drzewiecka | June 1, 2021

This document may be printed, photocopied, and disseminated freely with attribution. All content is the property of the McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership.

No matter where you live or your cultural background, you are unified by belonging to a family. A family has been the basis of humanity; it reflects the beautiful diversity that describes societies and cultures around the world. Many definitions of family exist; however, at its core, the concept of a family is fluid and ever evolving. In today’s world, parents are bringing up their children within increasingly diverse forms. As early childhood professionals, we understand it is critical to create welcoming and supporting environments that resonate with every family. This resource provides information and strategies to support LGBTQIA+ families in your program.


What Does LGBTQIA+ Mean?


Over the years, as public opinion and attitudes toward the queer community shifted, the language describing sexual orientation and gender identity has evolved. For instance, given the ever-changing social trends within our society, the term LGBTQ proved to be too limiting. As the discussion relating to the matters regarding sexual and gender identities is still happening, recently, the term has been expanded to include people who identify as intersex and asexual. The plus sign is now specifically used to include those who are not directly named within the LGBTQIA+ abbreviation. It is important to be respectful and use the terms that people identifying as LGBTQIA+ prefer.


Why Do Inclusive Classrooms Matter?


Adrienne Rich, an American poet and essayist, famously described the significance of inclusion and diversity in schools and society by saying, “When those who have the power to name and to socially construct reality choose not to see you or hear you… when someone with the authority of a teacher, say, describes the world and you are not in it, there is a moment of psychic disequilibrium, as if you looked into a mirror and saw nothing” (1986, p. 199). Early on, children start the ongoing process of developing self-representation and the need to build a healthy sense of their group identities. They construct the concept of self and group belonging within their social environments, including classroom settings, and by building deep relationships with family members or peers. The messages children receive in their early learning programs can foster or hinder their development. Classroom space plays a vital role in stimulating meaningful and sustainable relationships and providing a safe and welcoming culture. Children and LGBTQIA+ families have the right to feel seen, feel safe, and feel valued.


Below are compiled links that increase the LGBTQIA+ visibility within your program and ensure that all families feel welcome and appreciated:



At the McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership, an essential part of our work is to continue deepening our shared understanding and raising our collective awareness about the LGBTQIA+ community. We agree that the discussion on matters relating to gender identity inclusion should be enhanced and promote meaningful reflection in professional environments in the early childhood education field. The month of June marks the special time when we honor the LGBTQIA+ movement; however, we are immensely proud to celebrate the inclusion and diversity of all families.


“It takes some strength of soul – and not just individual strength,

but collective understanding – to resist this void, this non-being,

into which you are thrust, and to stand up,

 demanding to be seen and heard.”

 

–Adrienne Rich (1986)

Daria Drzewiecka is a Report Specialist and a member of the McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force. She is also pursuing a doctoral degree in community psychology at National Louis University’s College of Professional Studies and Advancement. Daria earned a baccalaureate degree in psychology from Roosevelt University and a graduate degree in child development and early childhood administration from Erikson Institute. She is interested in supporting initiatives leading to integrated early learning and child development systems, connecting early childhood practice with policy and research, and the functioning and effectiveness of community-based coalitions addressing the importance of early years.

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Building Community Partnerships for Lasting Impact

By Cara Murdoch and Sherry Rocha • December 12, 2025
By Cara Murdoch and Sherry Rocha Community collaborations can strengthen your early childhood program, expand services for families, and increase your visibility and credibility as a trusted resource in the community. But effective partnerships don’t begin with a phone call—they start with a plan. Start with internal planning Before reaching out to community members or organizations, gather insights from your internal team. Hold a brief planning meeting to discuss goals, identify needs, and build a shared vision for collaboration. Consider including: Members of your board of directors or advisory board Program staff members Interested family members and parents of enrolled children. REVISIT your mission and goals A clear, shared understanding of your program’s purpose will guide effective partnerships. Before reaching out to community members or organizations, gather insights from your internal team. Hold a brief planning meeting to discuss goals, identify needs, and build a shared vision for collaboration. Consider including: What is your mission? What strengths and expertise do we bring to the community? What challenges do our enrolled families face? What support or resources would be most helpful? What can we offer potential partners in return? Clarity about these questions will ensure that your outreach to community members and organizations is focused and meaningful. Learn about local resources Begin exploring the services and organizations that exist in your community. These may become valuable referral partners or direct collaborators. Examples include: Early intervention services Family support agencies Mental health providers Multilingual tax-preparation volunteers Knowing these resources helps you connect families with the help they need. share your space and services Your early childhood center may be a valuable asset for other groups. Consider offering your space to other programs or groups to strengthen your role as a community hub. Possibilities include: Scouting America or Girl Scout meetings Parenting workshops or support groups Health screenings or nutrition programs Community committee meetings participate in community events Raising visibility in your community opens doors to partnership. Become involved in: Neighborhood clean-up days Local fairs or festivals Library literacy events Cultural celebrations School district events These types of interactions naturally build trust and relationships. build and expand your network Partnerships often begin with small conversations or shared goals. Stay curious and connected—the more people you meet, the more opportunities arise. Potential collaborators include: Museums Public libraries Human services departments Colleges and universities Local schools Cooperative Extension services Hospitals and clinics Banks and financial advisors Mental health agencies Early intervention programs Remember: partnerships are mutually beneficial Successful collaborations are built on: Clear communication Shared goals Appreciation for each other’s strengths A commitment to supporting families and the community Whether the support you receive is financial, advisory, or educational, strong partnerships help everyone thrive. A final thought Community partnerships don’t happen overnight. With the proper planning, your early childhood program can become a powerful and connected resource in your neighborhood. Start small, stay open to ideas, and let relationships grow.
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