There is no denying that family structures and dynamics are changing today. Therefore, as professionals working with children, it is important that we understand the diverse family structures we may encounter so that we are ready to help support the children we are working with. The importance of this is also reinforced in Chapter 2 of our course text.

To begin this discussion, read the “Creating Welcoming and Inclusive Environments for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Families in Early Childhood Settings” article. In addition, choose one of the articles below to read:

• “Family Instability Hits Boys Harder Than Girls and Has Double Poverty’s Influence on Childhood Aggression”
• “Children Living With Female Same-Sex Couples Have 40 Percent More Focused Time With Their Parents”
• “Children Do Just as Well in ‘New Family Structures’ as in the Traditional Family”
• “After Parents Divorce, Regular Overnight Stays With Dad Are Best For Most Young Children”

After reading the two articles, address the following:

• Compare and contrast the family structures or dynamics shared in the two articles you read.
• Explain how you will utilize the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct to provide a foundation for working with the diverse family structures in the two articles you read.
• Discuss at least two strategies that you will use to foster inclusion of all diverse family structures, so that all children will feel supported, regardless of their family configuration. Use one additional scholary source to support your discussion.