Teaching kids about diversity and acceptance is very necessary today if you wish to help them understand and appreciate the differences that make each person unique. Here’s how you can guide your children towards embracing diversity and acceptance with simple and engaging activities.
Understanding Diversity
Diversity means differences. It can refer to different kinds of plants, animals, or even people. For example:
Diversity in plants means the various sorts of trees, bushes, flowers, grass, etc., that we see in our everyday lives.
Then there is diversity in dogs and cats. There are big dogs, small dogs, long-haired dogs, short-legged dogs. The Bengal cat, sphinx cat, bobcat, Persian breed, and British short-hair to name a few is another excellent example to teach kids about diversity, and how each breed, though different, is purrfect in its own way!
When it comes to people, diversity includes differences in race, skin color, religion, age, and abilities. Of course, these differences make our world interesting and beautiful.
Activities to Teach Diversity
Drive Through a Different Neighborhood
Take a drive through neighborhoods that are different from yours. Notice the variety of houses, shops, and people. When you do this, your child will learn about diversity and how it is all around us.
Cook Food from Other Cultures
Have you ever cooked food from other cultures? Try it! It will teach your kid about diversity. Choose a culture and make a popular dish together. While cooking, listen to music from that culture to fully immerse in the experience.
Read Books About Different Cultures
Reading stories from different cultures helps kids understand and appreciate other ways of life. Visit your local library and pick out books that showcase diverse characters and traditions.
Celebrate Cultural Holidays
Participate in cultural festivals and holidays from around the world. Decorate your home, learn about the holiday’s history, and make traditional crafts or food.
Talking About Social Justice
It’s also important to talk to kids about racism and social justice in ways they can understand. Explain that everyone deserves to be treated fairly and with respect, no matter their differences. Use simple examples and encourage your child to ask questions and express their thoughts.
Growing Together
Teaching diversity and acceptance is an opportunity for you to learn and grow together. Remember, the goal is to create a world where everyone feels accepted and valued. If you’re to teach about diversity to your children through reading, we highly recommend Sam: The Cat Without a Tail by Gloria Lintermans. This is a great book to teach children not to make fun of others just because they are different. The message behind this book is something to take into account in the education of children today.
Available on Amazon.
