what are some examples of social and cultural capital that young children experience
What is "social and cultural capital?"
cultural capital is defined as “forms of knowledge, both tangible and intangible, that have value in a given society in relation to status and power
Cultural capital defines how people (human) engage each other (social) and their resources (economic).
What about social capital?
Social capital refers to the collective value of all "social networks" [who people know] and the inclinations that arise from these networks to do things for each other ["norms of reciprocity"].
Young children bring the cultural customs of their families to preschool. These customs include both spoken and body language. An example is the 10-year-old Korean child who moves to the U.S. In Korea she was taught not to look teachers in the eyes. Of course here, the teachers expect children to look them in the eyes.
The social capital a child brings involves how his parents and siblings treat him. If they fight and suffer physical abuse, the child will likely display these behaviors at school.
Social and cultural capital refers to the resources, knowledge, and networks that individuals acquire through their social connections and cultural experiences. Young children also experience these forms of capital in various ways. Here are some examples:
1. Language skills: Children who grow up in an environment where they are exposed to rich and diverse language use (e.g., conversations, storytelling, reading books) develop stronger language skills. This linguistic capital gives them an advantage when it comes to communication and literacy.
2. Educational opportunities: Children from families with higher levels of education often have access to a wider range of educational resources, such as books, educational toys, and learning experiences. These experiences provide cultural capital that can enhance their cognitive development and academic success.
3. Social networks: The social connections children have, such as family, friends, and community members, provide them with social capital. For example, being part of a community with access to mentors or professionals who can provide guidance and support can contribute to their social and personal development.
4. Cultural knowledge: Children who are exposed to different cultural practices, traditions, and historical events develop cultural capital. This knowledge enables them to understand and engage with diverse perspectives, enhancing their ability to navigate different social and cultural contexts.
5. Access to experiences and opportunities: Children who have the opportunity to engage in extracurricular activities, such as art classes, sports, music lessons, or travel, gain cultural capital. These experiences expose them to different forms of art, physical activities, and cultural experiences, broadening their horizons and enriching their understanding of the world.
To assess examples of social and cultural capital that young children experience, one can observe the resources available to them, such as the books, toys, and educational materials they have access to. Additionally, examining the various social networks they are part of, the languages spoken in their environment, and the opportunities they have for exposure to different cultural practices and experiences can provide insights into the social and cultural capital they acquire.