I can almost hear your thoughts: “Really? Another thing I need to worry about for my kids?” I totally understand. Parenting is already a monumental task, but this one is essential. The skill I’m referring to is cultural competence.
Recent tragedies, like the devastating events in Orlando and the heartbreaking losses of individuals such as Marcus Silva and Lena Adams, underscore a harsh truth: discrimination and hate still exist. As much as we may want to shield our little ones from these harsh realities, they will eventually grow up in a world that isn’t yet perfect. One day, they’ll be the ones shaping and influencing our increasingly diverse society. So, rather than trying to protect them forever, let’s prepare them.
So, what is cultural competence? In simple terms, it’s about recognizing your own cultural identity and perspectives while also learning from the diverse cultural norms around you. It means understanding the unique qualities that each person brings to the table while appreciating the differences that exist between groups both locally and globally. This understanding translates into behaviors and attitudes that help individuals interact effectively in diverse environments.
Now that you know what cultural competence is, how can you help your child develop this vital skill? Here are some steps you can take. First, introduce the concept in a fun, engaging way through what I call “infusion.” Integrate diversity into your everyday activities. Then, have more open and direct conversations as they grow. Lastly, engage in self-reflection. What biases might you have? What subtle messages are you conveying to your children? By combining these three techniques consistently, you’ll be amazed at the transformation you see in both your child and yourself.
1. Infusion
- Music: Does your child love music? Introduce them to different genres from around the world. A personal favorite is the “Putumayo World Playground” CD, but platforms like YouTube and Pandora also offer fantastic global playlists. Have a family dance party with your new tunes!
- Art: Try this creative project: On a large sheet of paper, trace your child’s body and have them fill it with words and images that represent their culture. Invite friends and family to do the same, then compare and contrast. This will help highlight both the similarities and differences we all share.
- Books: The percentage of children’s literature featuring diverse characters is surprisingly low, but there are still great options available. If you’re unsure where to begin, check out this starter list at Culturally Competent Kids.
2. Dig Deeper
- Have Real Conversations: As your kids mature, it’s important to be straightforward with them. If they’re aware of recent events, talk about the broader context. Help them understand the reasons behind these occurrences, allowing them to form their own opinions.
- Connect It to Their World: Make discussions relevant by relating them to the people and situations around them. Explore instances of discrimination in your community. What if it affected someone they knew?
- Encourage Conversations with Others: Who among your friends or family has faced discrimination? What did it look like, and how did it feel? Encourage your kids to ask questions and listen actively. These discussions foster empathy, a key component of cultural competence.
3. Self-Exploration and Evaluation
- Evaluate Your Own Biases: Everyone has biases; it’s about identifying them. Consider taking Harvard’s Implicit Association Test, then discuss your findings with someone close to you. Acknowledge these biases openly.
- Assess Your Friendships: Are all your friends similar in background? Make an effort to broaden your social circle. Invite someone new over for dinner. This not only expands your perspectives but also sets a great example for your children.
- Never Stop Learning: Keep educating yourself on diversity and cultural issues. Explore books, visit museums, and engage in discussions with a diverse group of friends. Continuous learning will deepen your understanding and enable you to communicate these concepts effectively to your children.
Our lives are enriched by the diversity around us. In times of conflict, it can be easy to overlook this, yet the world we inhabit today is the same one we will pass on to our children. They will inherit both the challenges and opportunities of this world, and they will have the power to influence it. What kind of world do you want them to create?