March 16th, 2010 3 ways to bring diversity into your child’s play Posted by Melitsa in Articles, Education, play activities, pretend play, Roundups, Sites to visit

There has been talk lately about talking directly to your child about race instead of hoping that they get the message that “We are all the same”.  Whatever your take or stance on whether that last message is the right one or not we live in a diverse society. It’s up to us to teach and lead our children.

Photo credit: nathangibbs

Whether you mention race at home or live in a diverse neighbourhood. We live in a diverse world. Here are a few quick and easy ways to include diversity in play.  There are many other ways and many other things to do but at the very least having some play items from around the world will start the discussion and maybe lead to a story.

Food

Tried sushi lately?
Sushi |Melissa and Doug

Substitution

Lacing cards

Dolls

Family: African American family |Kazoo toys
Celebrate with diversity: Girl doll of colour made in Kenya | Rosie Hippo

Man and woman of colour|Rosie Hippo

Puzzles

Friends say hello puzzle

There are many other places and products. What do you have at home or are you looking for to add to your collection? Please share…

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Melitsa Avila is a former teacher, mother of three boys and military wife who talks about living an intentional play lifestyle using practical and everyday play activities to do with the under 5s. She publishes related ebooks & newsletters. Melitsa is the host and producer of a weekly Early Childhood radio show: Raising Playful Tots bringing parents and carers together with Early childhood practitioners. Thanks for reading!

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