Wednesday, February 08, 2012
Dyan
by: Dyan Eybergen
When children know about and are
comfortable with people of different cultural, racial and ethnic backgrounds,
there are fewer incidences of intolerance and prejudice bullying. When children
are taught acceptance they do not factor in exclusion criteria for being
friends with someone of a different colour or religion; they are willing to
accept people for who they are, not for how they appear.
- Set
a good example. Many behaviors are learned. When it comes to cultural
tolerance, you must always be mindful that children watch everything you do and
say and when having to conduct themselves in similar situations, by default
they will pattern the example you have provided them.
- Expose
children to different cultures at an early age. The more children learn about different
races and religions the more likely they are to accept them as part of their
environment. Try borrowing books on different nationalities and cultures from
the library, or have a night of the week where you have a dinner focusing on a
particular culture and introduce them to the foods and customs of the country
you choose.
- Teach
the meaning of equality! Although we are all different, we are all human beings
that deserve respect and kindness.
- Talk
about prejudice; don’t pretend it doesn’t exist. Teach children to advocate
against it.
- Listen well. When children have questions about those who are different from them, be armed with positive answers that will equip them with compassion and understanding.
