Children are like sponges; they absorb more than you know and have their own unique ways of processing what they absorb.
In a very big and confusing world of social issues, explaining diversity and inclusion can seem a tricky challenge but it’s an important milestone for kids. As they grow, mature and develop, it’s important that they learn to understand and appreciate the differences in people in an accepting and respectful manner.
Here’s a fun and age-appropriate way to explain diversity to a child.
“Diversity means that there are lots of different people and things in the world. It's like having a big box of crayons with all the colours. Just as each crayon is a different shade, people can be different from each other too. They may have different skin colours, speak different languages or like different books and music. Diversity is what makes the world interesting. It's a good thing because it helps us learn from each other and make new friends."
You can play around with this idea and improvise your explanation to suit your child’s interests and stage of development.
Teaching children about diversity helps them understand that people are different in various ways, such as race, ethnicity, culture, religion, gender and personal abilities.
By explaining this concept, we encourage inclusivity and teach children to accept and respect those who are different from them. Understanding diversity from an early age can help reduce prejudice and stereotypes. Children are often influenced by the attitudes and beliefs of the adults around them. By explaining diversity, we can counteract negative biases and promote a more open-minded and accepting attitude.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.