Diversity Awareness & Respect

Navigating Uncertainty and Exploring the Unknown

Learning to understand and accept new things is an important part of your child’s development.

When the unexpected happens, help your child think about the good things that come from changes and challenges.

• • Your child will notice your body language, and eye contact during new experiences.  Talk about what you’re thinking and feeling to help them feel less nervous.

• • If it looks like they are becoming too overwhelmed, take a break!  Step away for a few minutes and talk to your child about what they like or don’t like about the new experience or object.

There are so many different ways you can show your child new people, places, and things.

• Take your children to events like festivals with culturally diverse foods, music, and clothing. Talk about the importance of learning about others’ traditions and celebrations.

• Read stories that include a variety of characters: people of different ethnic groups, family structures, gender identities, religions, or physical abilities.  
• If you, yourself, don’t have much experience with other cultures, go to the library or use the internet to learn more about a specific topic.

• For some new experiences, like going to the dentist or to an amusement park, talk with your child about what they think will happen and what they can expect.  
  • Don’t avoid situations that may cause your child some distress. Learning how to navigate new experiences will teach your child that even nerve-wracking situations can be great!   
  • It can be helpful to watch videos or read stories about an upcoming experience to help prepare your child, but don’t over-prepare them. Over-preparation can actually increase anxiety, and make a new situations seem scary.
• Sometimes it can be helpful to visit a setting in advance.
  • For example, if your child is anxious about their first dentist appointment, consider visiting the dentist’s office on a day when they don’t have an appointment.  Ask the receptionist or a hygienist to show you an empty room and some of the tools.
  • Or bring your child when you have your own dentist appointment – let them watch you get your teeth cleaned to better understand what will happen when it’s their turn.