1. Many people believe that culture is something that only members of minority or non-dominant groups “have”, when in reality, we are all cultural beings.  Reflect on aspects of your own culture. Think about the parts of your culture that are visible to others such as what you wear, the foods you eat, holidays you celebrate, and any artifacts or dress that might be associated with your culture (the surface culture). Now think about the deeper aspects of your culture that might not be visible to others: your language, values, beliefs, religion, customs, socialization patterns, and so forth. What did your family believe? What values did your family impart to you? How were you taught these values and beliefs?

2. Children are socialized to become competent members of the community in which they live, learning the skills and understanding valued by that community. School and early childhood programs are important places for socialization therefore curriculum and pedagogical approaches tend to reflect the priorities of the dominant culture (or the culture of power in the society). Think about the schooling in the context in which you live. What are some of the skills and understandings that are valued in early childhood education programs? Where do these fit in relation to the theory in this chapter?