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Diversity Lessons for Kids

Saturday, April 28, 2012

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April 28, 2012 -- With bullying in the news so much lately, it seems that an important topic is to teach children, young people and everybody else how to accept and even cherish diversity.

So what are some easy steps? Aanchal Narang, a sophomore at Northwestern University and an alum of the interfaith organization "YouthLead" (link: www.youthleadonline.org) came into our ABC7 studio with a few communication tips.

Tips:
1. Get out of your own "comfort zone."
2. Don't avoid controversial topics.
- Use "I" statements to personalize thoughts and feelings.
- Ask the right questions.
- Remain silent long enough to listen.
3. Watch the news with your children. When you see a story that centers on a cultural issue, discuss it.
4. If you witness an episode of cultural or racial insensitivity, take a stand.
5. Seek out opportunities to take kids on a "faith" field trip.
6. If finances allow, make plans to visit another country on vacation.
7. Host a foreign exchange student.
8. Encourage kids to join organizations that bring different cultures together to interact and learn from each other.
9. Scan newspapers and community calendars for cultural and multicultural events.