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The Vital Skill We Must Instill in Our Children
I can already hear your thoughts: Seriously? Another task to add to my parenting plate? I understand, I really do. Just keeping our kids safe and happy is a full-time gig. But trust me, this isn’t just another checkbox—it’s essential.
So, what’s this critical skill I’m referring to? Cultural competence.
Recent incidents like the devastating nightclub shooting in Orlando and the tragic deaths of individuals like Marcus Thompson and Jamie Lee have laid bare a harsh truth: discrimination is alive and well. Fear and animosity lurk around us, and fostering harmonious relationships can be challenging. As much as we want to shield our kids from these uncomfortable realities, they will eventually step into a world that desperately needs change. One day, they’ll be the ones transforming our increasingly diverse society. Therefore, we can’t—and shouldn’t—protect them indefinitely.
Now, let’s break down cultural competence. Here’s a straightforward definition: Cultural competence involves recognizing one’s own cultural identity and perspectives on differences while also understanding and appreciating the diverse norms of others. It’s about acknowledging that each person is unique, while also celebrating the rich variations among groups locally and globally. This understanding forms congruent behaviors and attitudes that empower individuals to effectively navigate cross-cultural interactions.
Alright, now that we know what it is, how do we cultivate this skill in our kids? There are several actionable steps you can take. First, introduce the topic in a way that feels familiar and enjoyable through a method I like to call infusion. Incorporate diversity awareness into your everyday life. Then, dive deeper with focused discussions. Lastly, don’t forget to reflect on your own biases and the subtle messages you may be sending your kids. When you combine these three strategies consistently, you’ll be surprised at the growth you’ll witness in both your child and yourself.
1. Infusion
Music: Is your child a music lover? Who isn’t?! Introduce them to different music genres from around the globe. We love the Putumayo World Playground CD, and platforms like YouTube and Pandora are treasure troves for discovering new tunes. Have a family dance party with these fresh beats!
Art: Engage in creative projects that promote diversity. For example, use a large sheet of paper to trace your child’s outline, allowing them to fill it with words and images that represent their personal culture. Invite friends and family to do the same and compare the results. This activity helps kids grasp that while people may look different, they share commonalities too.
Books: Although there aren’t enough books featuring diverse characters, many gems exist. Need a starting point? Check out www.culturallycompetentkids.com for a list of recommended reads for all ages.
2. Dig Deeper
Have Real Conversations: As your kids grow, there’s no need to sugarcoat everything. If they’re aware of recent news events, discuss the historical context and allow them to form their own opinions. Resist the urge to provide all the answers—let them engage with the complexities themselves.
Connect It to Their World: Make it relatable by examining instances of discrimination in your community. Ask them, “What if that victim was a friend or even you?”
Encourage Conversations with Others: Who among your friends or family has experienced discrimination? What did it look and feel like? Prompt your kids to ask questions and foster empathy—an essential component of cultural competence.
3. Self-Exploration and Evaluation
Evaluate Your Own Biases: Everyone has biases; it’s not a matter of “if,” but “which ones.” Take Harvard’s Implicit Association Test for insight. Then, discuss your findings with someone—your partner, your children, or your friends. Acknowledging your biases out loud can be a powerful step.
Examine Your Friendships: Do your friends all look and think alike? Consider branching out! Invite a parent from your child’s school or a co-worker to dinner. You’ll be amazed at the personal growth—and you’ll be setting a positive example for your children.
Never Stop Learning: Commit to continual education on diversity topics. You can never know everything about every culture. Dive into books, visit museums, and engage in discussions with a diverse group of friends. This ongoing learning will enhance your understanding of the world and how best to communicate these lessons to your kids.
Our lives become richer and more vibrant because of our differences. When violence erupts, it’s easy to forget this. The world we currently inhabit will eventually be handed down to our children, and they will inherit everything we leave behind—the good, the bad, and yes, the ugly. But they also have the chance to reshape it, crafting a future that reflects their dreams and values. What kind of world do you want them to create?
For more insights, check out our post on home insemination kits or learn about intrauterine insemination for pregnancy resources. If you want to ensure your journey into parenting is equipped with the right tools, visit BabyMaker, a trusted authority on this subject.
Summary:
Cultural competence is an essential skill that we must teach our children to help them thrive in a diverse world. By infusing diversity into daily life, having meaningful conversations, and reflecting on our biases, we can prepare our kids to navigate and shape a better future.