Change Starts with Us - Media Initiative for Children, Respecting Difference Programme - Stepping Stones

Stepping Stones is a case study in which we celebrate, capture and reflect the use and impact of the Media Initiative for Children (MIFC, Respecting Difference Programme in early years settings. The Media Initiative for Children, Respecting Difference Programme is an intervention programme aimed at improving long term outcomes so that children, practitioners/teachers, parents and communities become more aware of diversity and difference issues and positively change attitudes and behaviours to those who are different.

We are committed to giving our children and young people the best start in life and working towards a shared society that respects diversity. Our evidence informed MIFC programme influences good relations, sustainability and resilience of community, promoting inclusion, respect for difference and shared learning. When implemented with natural curriculum it will enrich children’s learning experiences and promote quality education and care for young children. Whilst all of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals are interwoven, the two that are of particular relevance to the Media Initiative for Children Respecting Difference Programme are Goal 4: Quality Education and Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

The MIFC Respecting Difference programme was influenced by the image of the child as a co-constructor of knowledge and their own identity.

Research has identified the need to begin diversity work early with children and the importance of working with parents, practitioners/teachers and communities.

The following video is presents a case study which allows us to hear from those who have been trained in the implementation of the MIFC and how change really does start with us. Their experiences in delivering this programme will reflect the good relations efforts of local communities and celebrate the part they play in delivering peace and prosperity to the region.