Those of you who are experienced teachers might have encountered many of these activities already.If you can suggest ways in which we might expand or improve them-the things that have worked for you in the classroom-we would appreciate getting your feedback. For those of you who are new to teaching or whose time or budget constraints have hindered your ability to research diversity issues in the past,it is our hope that this guide will give you all the information you need to begin to incorporate activities about diversity into your regular curriculum.
These activities reflect our philosophy that diversity, racism, and prejudice are best addressed through a lifelong dialogue based on openness, curiosity, honesty, creativity, and self-reflection. Our goal is to provide children with these fundamental building blocks for a lifetime of working and socializing with people whose race, ethnicity, class, religion, or abilities might be different from their own.
We hope to help children feel comfortable talking about and exploring diversity, racism, and bias. We want to help them learn to get to know themselves, their own feelings, and their unique ways of being in the world. We also want to give them a context for understanding similarities and differences as a natural component of nature-and, thus, of people.
The activities in this booklet can be used year-round and are equally appropriate for diverse or homogeneous classrooms. Each activity falls into one or more of the categories listed below. While each can stand on its own, we recommend choosing some from all five categories:
- Explores similarities and differences in nature. The rich variety in the natural world provides a frame work for appreciating the similarities and differences among people.
- Helps children reflect on themselves as unique individuals in a large society--Feeling comfortable with ourselves and our own heritage is an important step toward feeling comfortable with others.
- Relates directly to race, ethnicity, culture, or ability--These activities directly explore and celebrate similarities and differences among people.
- Relates directly to racism and prejudice.
- Encourages community service and cooperation--Learning how to help others and how to get along are vital skills for children growing up in a diverse society.
