Diversity & Inclusion in the Early Years
We live in a very multicultural country and children will interact with children from all different kinds of backgrounds so it is important that we teach them how to include others! The earlier we can teach them about inclusion, the better children will be able to interact in appropriate ways in the future. Children will naturally notice things that are similar and different between themselves and their friends so it is up to parents to let them know that diversity is a good thing! Children ages 3-5 can already develop different opinions and biases towards other children from different countries and may have the tendency to choose play partners of the same race as them. For example, an Asian child may be more likely to choose to play with another Asian child.
In most families, their cultural and ethnic backgrounds have a big influence on how young children see themselves. This is why it is important to promote inclusion of different ethnicities with our children young! It will help them learn about other cultures, express their curiosity in ways that are not rude to their peers and build friendships with anyone. We need to give our children the opportunity to develop respect and appreciation for other cultures in their community. Growing up with these values of inclusion can help our children and their peers have a sense of belonging to make sure no one is feeling left out! Watch this video about diversity with your child!
VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ni_at59TzMA
Children may also be interacting with peers that are different from them in other ways and meet friends with a range of different abilities. Some children have learning difficulties, physical disability or behavioural challenges. Naturally, noticing these differences can raise their curiosity! So, it is important to let our children know that difference in ability does not make anyone less of an individual it just means they may need some extra support in learning and making friends. Children with special education needs have a harder time being accepted by their friends and usually have fewer friendships than those without special education needs.
The inclusion of children with different abilities are hugely influenced by adults. This also means that inclusive behaviours can also be taught to them! Creating opportunities for our children to learn about the differences is important and exposing our children to differing abilities can help children better understand they are just like any other peers. This is a great chance for your child to learn about different abilities that other children have and it creates chances for them to have meaningful ways to interact with their friends. Our children’s ability to include others with special needs can make more meaningful friendships. This is why the inclusion of all abilities are important to promote to our children! This video is great to watch with your child!
VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9koRxQUjNFQ
Parents can have open conversations with their children about different cultures ethnicities and abilities. If there is less conversation about children with disabilities in the family it can influence the way children think about those with special needs.
Promoting diversity and inclusion at home can help children create more meaningful friendships outside the home. Focusing on the positive parts and the strengths of diversity can also help children feel more accepted in their own identity. This means that not only will our children benefit from being more inclusive but it will also help their friends and classmates feel safer! Some ways we can teach our children is through reading books that discuss multiple cultures or abilities and remember, encourage questions and not judge them!