Photo by Charles Parker
Teaching kids to accept diversity is one of the kindest things that we can pass down to the future adults of our world.
Promoting diversity as early as a child reaches the age of five can greatly increase their social skills and acceptance of others. Chris Cochrane, the author, discusses the manner in a fun narrative in his children’s book “The Dinglehopper Blueberry Belly-Button Snooter.” It’s a story that parents should absolutely read to their youngsters because it teaches a valuable lesson.
But before we get to the meat of things, let’s first talk about the meaning of inclusion and diversity.
What Is the True Meaning of Inclusion and Diversity?
When people are involved and empowered, their innate worth and dignity are acknowledged, and inclusion occurs. An inclusive classroom values and demonstrates respect for the abilities, convictions, backgrounds, and lifestyles of its students. It also fosters a feeling of community among its pupils.
Diversity is the range of individual distinctions among people, encompassing factors such as:
- national origin
- gender identity
- ethnicity
- sexual orientation
- language
- family structure
- learning styles
- physical or mental abilities
- immigration status
- traits
- class
- religion
- ethical values system
- race
Why Does Inclusion and Diversity Matter in Our Lives So Much?
Children can learn more about themselves and the people around them by having candid and constructive conversations about differences. Kids who embrace diversity and inclusiveness are better able to interact with the outside world with kindness, confidence, and curiosity.
Youngsters can develop empathy for those with distinct characteristics from them with the support of diversity and inclusion. All children become better learners through diversity and inclusivity. This enables them to comprehend different topics from many points of view.
Different Ways to Advocate for Inclusion and Diversity at Home
Seeing positive role models that embrace diversity and inclusiveness is the best method for children to learn about these concepts. It is within the power of parental intervention to ensure their child grows up in environments and experiences that value and celebrate individuality.
Method #1: Expose Kids to Diverse Individuals and Experiences
Children’s differences get normalized through exposure to various situations and individuals. It fosters greater understanding and eliminates the uncertainty, anxiety, or “otherness” that frequently fuels bias.
Assist your youngster in the following experiences:
- Give your kids the chance to interact with people from various backgrounds.
- Attend local cultural events.
- Go to new and varied places if you can.
- Visit cultural centers and museums.
You can also partake in some of these activities at the house:
- Pick dolls with different racial and ethnic backgrounds.
- Invest in a globe to discuss the many locations with your child.
- Read biographies of noteworthy individuals and inspirational figures from a range of backgrounds. Include these tales in your quest toward a growth mindset.
- Look for a pen pal abroad.
- Select media that celebrates and actively represents diversity.
- Peruse literature that delves into diverse cultures and concepts.
Teaching kids to accept diversity can be done. Families just need to introduce the concept properly to their children, and we hope that these methods can help.
Method #2: Buy Books that Celebrate Diversity and Read Them
Teaching kids about diversity can be challenging at times. Sometimes, we’re unsure if the language we’re using or the message we’re sending is appropriate. Fortunately, many children’s books have been written with this exact goal. Here’s a handful of them that could help promote diversity in children:
• “The Dinglehopper Blueberry Belly-Button Snooter” by Chris Cochrane
Chris Cochrane, the author of “The Dinglehopper Blueberry Belly-Button Snooter,” presents kids with a fun narrative. It talks about being kind, helpful, curious, and accepting of those different from you.
• “It’s Okay to Be Different” by Todd Parr
This book conveys a message of self-confidence, acceptance, and understanding via vivid colors and humorous situations.
• “People” by Peter Spier
In this beloved children’s book, youngsters travel the globe to discover the distinctions that make every nation and culture distinct.
Method #3: Become a Role Model for Inclusive Behavior
It is beneficial for kids to watch the role models in their environment. They never stop learning, listening, and observing. Although it’s not always simple, it’s critical to model the kind of person you want your child to grow up to be.
Take a close look at your own views and actions to ensure you’re modeling the values you want your kid to have.
Honor diversity, speak politely about individuals from different backgrounds, and refrain from feeding preconceptions. Your child will learn to appreciate and be kind to everyone if you do.
Teaching Kids to Accept Diversity Is a Goal Parents Need to Accomplish
Many adults often don’t take children seriously. But in this case, every parent and adult must make an exception. We need to create a world wherein every member of humanity accepts everyone regardless of their skin color, religion, culture, and more.
You can help this campaign by learning more about Chris Cochrane, the author, and get a copy of his book today. Don’t forget to check out our other blogs, too, so that you may learn how to teach children to look beyond physical appearances!