Children's questions about physical differences often catch us off guard. Parents worry about getting the response wrong, making the situation tense. But TV host and co-founder of ByUs Box, Nicole Stamp, says there's a better approach.
On today's episode with host Jessica Rolph, Nicole offers ways of thinking about these encounters from an equity perspective, ensuring everyone comes away from the interaction having had a positive experience. Equally important is the practice of building conversations about inclusion into the every day. After all, these are the conversations — which continue throughout a child's life — that help our kids to make sense of the world.
Key Takeaways:
[1:45] We teach children to categorize from a young age by encouraging them to distinguish patterns, colors, and shapes. How does this categorization connect to the research on how toddlers are categorizing people?
[5:15] If a 2 or 3 year old walks up to somebody with a mobility device full of questions, how should a parent respond?
[6:20] Nicole explains the difference between diversity and equity.
[7:15] What does inclusion really mean?
[8:55] How can you guide a conversation with a child interested in another child with a physical difference?
[11:45] What kind of proactive steps can parents take to reinforce equity and inclusion?
[17:12] Nicole explains why being "color blind" does not help create the equitable society that we strive for.
[21:30] If a parent avoids conversations about race or other differences among people, their child is picking up on that message in non-verbal ways.
[23:33] Jessica shares her takeaways from a powerful conversation.
Mentioned in this episode:
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