Many people are wondering how they can help the nation heal following recent tragedies. It may be time to look at our number one resource, our children. Helping children to cope with these tragedies in a way that helps them maintain their mental and emotional health long term may be the best way any of us can help. An important part of children's mental and emotional health is their ability to appreciate diversity. The following is a list of suggestions that will be helpful in addressing this issue.

1. Remind children of the old saying, "You can't judge a book by its cover." We cannot know from looking at people or from their religious or ethnic affiliation whether or not they are good people. Each person is an individual and should not be judged on the basis of what others do or say. A person's race, gender, or religious affiliation should never be the basis for teasing, distrust, or negative interactions.
    
2. Acknowledge that people are different. We are. Talk about the differences with your child in a respectful manner. Understanding others' cultures and religions can help a child be more accepting. It helps to remove some of the fear and apprehension a child may feel towards others. People are less fearful of what they understand.
    
3. Ask children to stop and think what it might feel like to be someone who stands out as being different.
    

   What would it feel like to be the only girl on the soccer team?
    

   What would it feel like to be the only African-American in a classroom full of white children?
    

   What does it feel like to be a child of mid-Eastern heritage in the United States right now?

    

4. Take opportunities to celebrate diversity with your child. Go to museums, art exhibits, celebrations, fairs, and theatrical productions that embrace or depict other cultures. Have a relaxed attitude and enjoy these events leaving plenty of time to discuss them with your child during and after the event.
    
5. Encourage children to recognize prejudice and to feel brave and say something. Help children practice statements that they can say.
   
   It's not fair to pick on someone just because he is different from you.
   
   If we can all try to get along, the world will be a better place.
   
   I don't like what you just said. It seems like you’re making assumptions about someone you don't even know.
    
6. Children can benefit from understanding why cultures are different from one another. For example, you can ask children why Native Alaskans wear such warm clothing. Why do Native Americans celebrate seasons and weather? Why do many Americans sing the national anthem before big events? At the Olympics, why does the country of the gold medalist play their song and display their flag?
    
7. An important part of children's ability to respect others' heritage is to take pride in their own. Help your child to celebrate her heritage. A child's self esteem is greatly affected by her feelings about her own heritage.
    
8. Talk to children about a time you were treated unfairly. Discuss how you handled it. If you are not pleased with how you handled it, then talk with your child about how you wish you had. You might even ask your child to help you brainstorm better ways you could have handled the situation. Talk about times your child might be treated unfairly and help your child brainstorm ways he can cope.
    
9. Take time to look at a world map together. It is nice to have one on display, if possible - perhaps a map on the wall or a globe in the family room. Maybe each week or month the family can learn about a new country or culture. When children ask questions you cannot answer, look for answers together.
    
10. One of the most important ways we can help our children is by being good role models. This, more than anything else we do, will affect the way our children approach diversity. So, avoid using stereotypes. Treat all people with respect.
     

Let’s challenge our own prejudices and try to grow beyond them. In doing so, we help our greatest resource, our children, be strong for tomorrow.

For more information call our Warmline 1-800-552-8522.  

 

Last update: Friday, November 30, 2007

 

 

 

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