Transforming Early Childhood Classrooms as Sites of Love: Humanizing Black Boys Through Head Rubs and "Playin' the Dozens"

• In Event: The Pandemic as a Portal: On Transformative Ruptures and (Im)Possible Futures for Education

Abstract

Black boys in American schools are often subjected to crisis narratives that negatively impact teacher-student relationships. This can no longer be the case past COVID-19. This papers offers insights into how two Black male early childhood teachers in New York City have reimagined teacher-student relationships. Central to their reframing of teacher-student relationships between Black male teachers and Black boys is a focus on the importance of nurturing social and emotional health. This manuscript highlights how these two Black male teachers foster positive relationships with their young Black boys through explicit verbal praise, loving gestures, and body language, ultimately empowering Black boys to see themselves as capable learners. In doing so, it offers powerful insights into educating Black boys.

Author

• Nicole McGowan Madu, Southern Connecticut State University