Abstracts
Abstract
This inquiry examines how comprehensive sexuality education in kindergarten can be enriched through arts-based pedagogy and queer theory. Guided by autoethnography, it explores how music, movement, and material provocations can embrace gender diversity, support inclusion, and challenge developmentalist delays that marginalize queer identities and experiences. Analysis examines the tension between responding to teachable moments and taking a proactive, scaffolded approach that weaves inclusive values through learning. Findings highlight the arts as dynamic means for expressing identity, advancing relational belonging, and cultivating inclusive, imaginative environments that affirm the right to self-expression.
Keywords:
- sexuality education,
- early childhood education,
- the arts,
- queer pedagogy,
- queer theory
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Appendices
Biographical note
Matthew Yanko is a sessional instructor at the University of British Columbia and an elementary music educator in British Columbia, Canada. He specializes in music education and arts-based pedagogy in early childhood and elementary contexts. His research explores music, social-emotional learning, and place-based environmental arts education, including award-winning work on creative approaches to assessment. Email: matthew.yanko@ubc.ca
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