By Siyona Varghese
In today’s world, raising children who are inclusive, empathetic, and respectful of differences is not just a nice idea it’s essential. The preschool years, when children are first forming their ideas about themselves and others, are the perfect time to start. Early lessons in inclusion help children grow into adults who embrace diversity, value fairness, and build strong, respectful relationships.
Why Early Inclusion Matters
Children under six are naturally curious and observant. They notice differences in appearance, language, abilities, and family structures, often asking blunt questions like, “Why is her skin darker?” or “Why can’t he walk?” These moments aren’t signs of prejudice they’re opportunities to shape understanding.
When adults respond with openness instead of shushing, children learn that differences are normal, valuable, and worth celebrating. Without guidance, children may instead absorb stereotypes or feel uncertain about interacting with peers who are different. Teaching inclusion early plants the seeds of empathy, reducing the chances of bullying or exclusion later in school.
Modeling Respect in Everyday Life
Children learn most from what they see. When parents treat others with kindness, use respectful language, and show interest in people from all walks of life, children naturally mirror these behaviors. For example:
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Greeting neighbors from different cultures.
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Reading books that feature diverse families and characters.
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Using positive language about differences: “She uses a wheelchair to help her move around, just like you use your scooter.”
These everyday moments send a clear message: everyone deserves respect.
Practical Ways to Teach Inclusion
Use Inclusive Language: Avoid labels that reduce people to their differences. Instead of saying, “the disabled boy,” use “the boy who uses a wheelchair.” This helps children see the person first.
Expose Children to Diversity: Introduce children to books, music, and toys from various cultures and backgrounds. Dolls with different skin tones, puzzles showing children with disabilities, and stories from around the world all broaden perspectives.
Encourage Empathy Through Play: When children play together, conflicts arise. Use these as teaching moments: “How do you think your friend felt when you didn’t let her join the game?” Practicing empathy builds the foundation of inclusion.
Celebrate Differences at Home: Cook foods from different cultures, learn greetings in other languages, or share family traditions with friends. These experiences make diversity exciting and relatable.
Answer Questions Honestly
If a child asks about someone’s appearance or ability, respond calmly and clearly. For example:
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“Some people have different skin colors. Isn’t it wonderful that people come in so many shades?”
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“He wears hearing aids because his ears don’t hear very well. That tool helps him listen, just like your glasses help you see.”
Handling Exclusion and Bias
Even young children sometimes exclude others, saying things like, “You can’t play because you’re different.” While this may come from a place of unfamiliarity, it’s important to address it firmly but kindly. Explain that everyone has the right to play and belong. Encourage inclusive play by guiding them toward shared activities or games that everyone can enjoy.
If a child repeats stereotypes they’ve overheard, gently correct them. For instance, if they say, “Boys can’t wear pink,” you might reply, “Colors are for everyone. People can wear what makes them happy.”
Building a Community of Inclusion
Inclusion doesn’t happen in isolation. Schools, caregivers, and communities all play a role. Parents can:
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Work with teachers to support inclusive classrooms.
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Arrange playdates with families from different backgrounds.
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Encourage children to stand up for others when they see unfairness.
When children see inclusion modeled at home, reinforced in school, and celebrated in the community, the message becomes clear: differences make us stronger.
Long-Term Benefits
Raising inclusive children benefits more than just the individual child it shapes society. Kids who learn to respect differences grow into adults who are more empathetic, cooperative, and accepting. They are better equipped to thrive in diverse workplaces, communities, and friendships.
By starting early, we give children a strong moral compass: one that values kindness, celebrates diversity, and rejects prejudice.
Final Thought
Inclusion is not a one-time lesson it’s a lifelong value that begins in childhood. By modeling respect, answering questions honestly, and celebrating differences, we teach children that everyone belongs. Helping young children respect differences from the start builds not only compassionate individuals but also a kinder, more inclusive world for us all.
