Anti-Bias Learning in the Early Childhood Classroom is a 25-hour, 10-module online course designed for teachers seeking continuing education credits in any state. This course guides educators through the foundational concepts of bias as it develops in young children, and explores the ways identity and diversity are formed and recognized in early childhood settings. Teachers will deepen their understanding of the four goals of anti-bias education, identity, diversity, justice, and activism, and learn how to integrate these principles into daily practice. Participants will discover actionable strategies for creating inclusive classroom environments, developing culturally responsive curricula, and addressing bias and stereotypes as they arise, particularly during play. The course also emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, encouraging educators to examine and challenge their own biases. Teachers will learn how to partner effectively with families and communities to extend anti-bias learning beyond the classroom and will be equipped with tools to advocate for social justice and equity. Finally, the course provides guidance on evaluating and sustaining anti-bias practices to ensure lasting impact. By the end of the course, educators will be confident and equipped to nurture classrooms that celebrate diversity, promote fairness, and support every child's development.
1. Introduction to Anti-Bias Learning in Early Childhood
2. Recognizing Bias in Young Children
3. Nurturing Identity and Embracing Diversity
4. Applying the Four Goals of Anti-Bias Education
5. Reflecting on Personal Biases as Educators
6. Designing Inclusive Classrooms
7. Building a Culturally Responsive Curriculum
8. Addressing Bias and Stereotypes in Play
9. Partnering with Families and Communities for Advocacy
10. Sustaining and Evaluating Anti-Bias Practice
By the end of this 25‑hour course, learners will be able to:
Foundations of Bias & Child Development
Explain how bias forms and develops in early childhood and describe the ways young children notice and interpret identity and differences.
Identify common manifestations of implicit and explicit bias in early learning environments and their impact on children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development.
Identity, Diversity, Justice & Activism (ABAR Framework)
Differentiate the four goals of anti-bias education—identity, diversity, justice, and activism—and articulate their relevance to early childhood teaching.
Design learning experiences that support children’s positive identity development and appreciation for human diversity.
Apply anti-bias strategies that promote fairness, challenge stereotypes, and encourage children to speak up about injustice in age-appropriate ways.
Culturally Responsive & Inclusive Practice
Create inclusive classroom environments by incorporating materials, routines, and interactions that reflect varied identities, cultures, languages, and abilities.
Develop culturally responsive curriculum plans that affirm children’s backgrounds and broaden their understanding of the world.
Respond constructively to biased comments, behaviors, and teachable moments during play and daily routines using developmentally appropriate guidance.
Self-Reflection & Professional Awareness
Analyze personal beliefs, assumptions, and biases using reflective tools and frameworks for ongoing professional growth.
Set personal action goals for cultivating equitable and anti-bias practices within their own teaching contexts.
Family & Community Engagement
Implement strategies for partnering with families and communities to support shared understanding and collaboration around anti-bias learning.
Communicate effectively with families about identity, diversity, and fairness in ways that honor diverse perspectives and experiences.
Advocacy, Leadership & Sustainability
Advocate for equitable policies and practices within early childhood programs and community settings.
Use assessment tools to evaluate current classroom practices and identify areas for strengthening anti-bias approaches.
Develop a sustainable plan for maintaining and expanding anti-bias practices over time.
Certificate of completion
This class is an independent-study course. Students will have all the resources needed to successfully complete the course within the online material. A student helpdesk is available for technical support during the course enrollment.