The world is becoming a more diverse place in many aspects of life. The differences in cultural, gender and family structures are expanding. Many children go to day care and then on to school with other children who are non-native English speakers.
This gives children exposure to learning more about differences in settings where parents have less control. However, parents can still explain the concept of diversity in an engaging way.
Incorporating lessons in daily activities can help reduce some of the complexity of explaining differences. Parents feel less intimidated and they can share in the learning experience with their children.
Preschool children notice differences among people. During this stage, part of their growth includes learning how to sort things based on size and color. At the same time, their world is usually limited to school, family and the neighborhood.
Parents can expand this world view and capitalize on a preschooler’s learning stage with activities from different cultures. Through music, sports and animals, a preschooler’s understanding of the global community will grow.
Children learn to respect and accept differences in others from their parents. This can become a character building exercise that follows them into adulthood. Parents have an awesome opportunity to help their children become productive, compassionate adults.
Here are a few suggestions for parents to celebrate with their children:
Discuss Family History
A good way to understand diversity is to have a sense of oneself. Parents can share photographs of ancestors and stories about each family member. Children become aware of their family’s history and culture.
Music and Dance
Children will learn that all people enjoy listening and dancing to music; different cultures simply have their own ways of enjoyment. Parents can discuss the differences – and the similarities – between music from other cultures and their own. Perhaps parents can borrow musical recordings from neighbors who are from a different culture or country.
Read Books
Reading books is a significant way to teach children about people and cultures from various parts of the world. Stories make other cultures come to life. Books with interesting storylines can introduce discussions that enhance the learning experience.
A family trip to the library or bookstore is a fun way to find interesting books. Children can connect with storybook characters that have different customs but similarities in what it means to be a child.
Look for Opportunities
Parents should not shield their children from noticing difference in others. The natural curiosity of children will notice another child with different sounding name or food. Rather, parents should embrace the opportunity to allow children to interact with others.
Knowing families from different cultures increases an appreciation of those differences. Visits to festivals, museums and restaurants that serve ethnic menus can help children learn about other lifestyles and customs.
Parents should not try to hide those differences. They must consider what type of message is sent to children about different cultures.
Taking the time to explain differences that may seem strange to children will increase their understanding. Children will appreciate the different cultures and the lessons from their parents.
