“There are three ways to ultimate success: The first way is to be kind. The second way is to be kind. The third way is to be kind.”
– Mr. Rogers
Try these four strategies to help your kids practice being inclusive and kind.
You can download this resource HERE.
Put other children on their radar.
Noticing others is the first step to including them. Kids are often quick to respond to gentle prompts such as:
- “A new family just moved in across the street. What should we do to welcome them?”
- “Hey, I notice that so-and-so is sitting alone. Think you could invite them to join your game?”
Teach kids how to include others.
Social skills are teachable! Kids will benefit from role-playing what it looks like to reach out in a friendly way. When you meet someone new, you can:
- Smile at them. A smile can instantly make someone feel more welcome.
- Invite them to play or sit with you.
- Pay them a compliment: “I like your drawing”
- Notice one thing you have in common: “Your book has animals. I like animals, too!”
It’s a good idea to remind your kids that if someone doesn’t want to play, that’s also OK. Making that first connection with them was important, and they can always try again another time.
Talk about similarities and differences.
Kids are curious and notice differences. When your kids wonder why someone looks, talks, or acts differently than they do, take it as an opportunity to strengthen understanding.
- Read diverse picture books together.
- Talk about who they see in the world, like why one kid may wear noise-cancelling headphones and another may need crutches to walk or a wheelchair to get around.
- Be open to questions and willing to answer!
Model kindness and inclusion.
Our kids pay attention to the ways we treat others. They notice how we interact with the people we know as well as with new people. Keep this in mind as you engage with the people around you!
*Adapted from PBS Kids