Teaching kids about diversity

“No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.” 

- Nelson Mandela Long Walk to Freedom

Children start noticing gender and race differences as early as age 2 - creating the opportunity for us to help them develop a narrative to match their observations that is affirming and uplifting.

In short, the following practices will help develop the skills that support diversity (differences amongst individuals) and inclusivity: 

• Model the behavior you want them to learn

• Create experiences for exposure (virtual or in real life, media such as books and movies can be great learning opportunities)

• Open communication will provide the opportunities for kids to ask questions and for adults to provide the understanding they seek

• Teach kids to be critical thinkers 

• Respectfully correct behaviors and comments that are offensive, racist, prejudiced, discriminatory, etc. (at least in conversation with kids)

Want help explaining diversity to your kids?  Watch this short YouTube video for help or this Sesame Street one. And here’s one about including.