"Who am I?" "Where do I belong?" "What is my influence?"
Self identity is a crucial factor in the being, belonging and becoming of a child. The construction of a child’s identity, when positive, strengthens that child’s interests and skills and encourages him or her to be an active participant in their community (DEECD, 2009).
There are several different aspects to identity; physical, social, emotional, spiritual and cognitive, and each of these can be developed through play in the right environment. A safe, secure and supported environment allows children to grow in confidence, which enables them to form a strong sense of identity.
“In order to form a strong sense of self, children need to build secure relationships first within the family and then with caring, attentive adults in other settings.” pg. 18
“ All children, with support, can develop a strong sense of self and learn to interact with others with care, empathy and respect.” pg. 18
As educators we can set up learning environments to encourage the development of positive identities. These identities will continue to develop throughout the course of the child’s life, but to ensure that each child has a strong sense of self from a very young age will allow them to start off on the right foot. It will enable the child to feel as though they belong, to feel more confident, reassured and capable.
“During these [early] years, children make strides towards adulthood by becoming competent, independent, self-aware, and involved in the world beyond their families.”
(Eccles, 1999)
Being- "Involves children developing an awareness of their social and cultural heritage, of gender and their significance in their world."
Belonging- "relationships are the foundation for the construction of identity."
Becoming- "Includes children building and shaping their identity through their evolving experiences and relationships which include change and transitions"This ability to evolve and change as varying experiences come into play demonstrates a reassured sense of self, but also the child's resilience; their ability to cope with new aspects in life.
