Teaching Children Tolerance

By Cindy Jett 
Teaching your child tolerance not only makes moral sense, but also makes economic sense. In this era of rapid globalization, it is likely that your child will grow up to interact and do business with people from vastly different cultures from different corners of the world. If your child demonstrates a genuine respect and comfort with diversity, it will likely expand his opportunities and success in life. Tolerance is not simply "tolerating" differences among people, but refers to a broad respect and appreciation of diversity. The following strategies will teach your child to value difference, rather than fear it.

It is OK to talk about differences.

Tolerance is not about pretending everybody is the same. Teach your child that it is OK to recognize and discuss differences. People have different beliefs, look differently, and have different customs. These differences aren't good or bad, per se, they are simply different. Curiosity is fine as long it is accompanied by an attitude of respect and not judgment.

Expose your child to diversity.

Perhaps the best way to develop an appreciation of diversity is through exposure. Whether it is through school, an extracurricular activity or travel, expose your children to different kinds of people. Be positive about cross cultural interactions and friendships.

Bear witness to the commonalities of the human condition.

People from all cultures have families, care for children, work hard, and exhibit kindness and loyalty to their loved ones. So while people vary tremendously in terms of beliefs, culture and traditions there is an underlying humanity which unites us all. Look for points of connection on this deeper level, and discuss them with your children.

Wise Heart Books takes children on a magical journey of fun and discovery, of learning and love, of understanding and sharing. Our stories show the importance of cultivating compassion, responsibility, forgiveness, tolerance, and many other important qualities that build strong character, mind, and heart.

Wise Heart Books also believe that education should be available to every child. All the net profits from the sales of Wise Heart Books are designated to the further development of such publications and to support educational programs for disadvantaged children around the world. 

Click Here to take a Peek of the Books>>