We have learned from our parents, but also from society, how to talk and to behave. But few of us have had discussions in our family about cultural or racial differences. Maybe we haven’t even felt the need before, but times have changed. Now we sometimes work with people of a different nationality and children coming from different cultures meet and play in the park. Considering these demographic changes, it is important to prepare children to face this complex society, in all its aspects.

One of the best ways to raise children that do not see differences as a barrier is that we talk to them about racial and cultural differences as early as possible and show our willingness to answer questions. Also, whenever we have the opportunity, it is important to point out the impact that injustice can have on all of us.

Why it’s necessary to explain differences in race and nationality 

Children are not born racist, and with the right guidance they can develop a strong sense of justice and equality. They can easily acquire the concept of social and cultural diversity if we explain it to them as clearly as possible and use examples from our community.  In the first years of life, the child’s mind behaves like a sponge which absorbs everything they see and hear (especially at the playground), which leads to the appropriation of all social concepts, including racism. According to a study conducted by American researchers, children who are bullied because of their race are prone to a high degree of mental and behavioral problems. This level decreases for children who have a strong sense of racial and ethnic identity. Therefore, it’s important for any family to always discuss racial differences, regardless of nationality.

How to raise tolerant children

We can start discussing with our children by simply describing the people surrounding them, asking them if they noticed any difference in the language they speak, their appearance or any cultural differences.

The next step is to acknowledge that we live in a diverse and yet unjust society most of the time, but that each of us needs to learn how to accept the people around us regardless of nationality or race.

  1. Correcting the child’s language on racial topics

Starting from age 4, which is an extremely important age in terms of learning, we should correct children’s language and make them understand that words have power and that they can hurt the people around us.

  1. Identifying and naming ethnic differences

We can provide examples of social inequality through stories with characters of a different skin color or by watching relevant videos together with your child. We can use these tools to teach children how to show respect and tolerate social differences, by focusing on what we have in common instead of what sets us apart.

  1. Participating in multicultural events

Events celebrating multiculturalism are a good opportunity for us to show children just how much richness there is in diversity.  We can teach them acceptance and tolerance by actively engaging them in games and workshops hosted by such events. A good example is World Experience Festival.

The principles that we follow in Acorns Nursery help children understand and respect cultural differences. For example, in Multicultural Week, children are introduced to different traditions around the world, and so that they come to realize that although we are different, we are in fact all the same.

It’s perfectly normal that we want to teach our children about beautiful and good things, but it is also important for them to know what is happening outside their protective bubble and help them to see the world in its complexity. Their identity is also built by understanding the injustice that exists in society.

Slowly, by using a structured approach and small warnings when needed, children will come to understand all aspects of society and will be better equipped to deal with the reality surrounding them.