As a parent, you might wonder, is there really one more thing I need to focus on for my kids? The answer is yes. While ensuring our children’s safety is a monumental task, there’s a fundamental skill that has become essential in today’s world: cultural competence.
Recent tragic events, like the shooting in Orlando and the heartbreaking deaths of individuals such as Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, underscore a harsh reality: discrimination, fear, and hatred persist. As much as we might want to shield our little ones from these truths, they will inevitably grow into a society that is still grappling with these complex issues. One day, they will be the ones driving change in our ever-diversifying world. Thus, we cannot, and should not, protect them indefinitely.
What is Cultural Competence?
To put it simply, cultural competence involves recognizing one’s own cultural identity and perspectives on differences, while also being open to learning from the diverse norms and traditions of others. It means understanding the unique traits within different groups and appreciating the variety across cultures and communities. This understanding manifests as a set of behaviors and attitudes that help individuals engage positively in cross-cultural interactions.
How to Foster Cultural Competence in Your Child
Now that you have the definition, how can you foster cultural competence in your child? There are several strategies to consider:
- Infusion
- Music: Does your child enjoy music? Introduce them to a variety of music styles from around the globe. For instance, the Putumayo World Playground CD offers a fantastic collection. Streaming platforms like YouTube and Pandora also provide excellent resources for a family dance party featuring diverse tunes!
- Art: Get creative! One fun project is to outline your child’s body on a large sheet of paper. Ask them to fill it with words and images that represent their culture. Involve friends and family in this activity to compare and discuss the results, highlighting both similarities and differences.
- Books: The availability of diverse literature is growing, but it still lags behind. Resources like Culturally Competent Kids can help you find inclusive books for your children.
- Dig Deeper
- Have Genuine Conversations: As children mature, it’s crucial to engage them in honest discussions. If they’re aware of current events, such as the recent violence, explore the historical context together. Encourage them to think critically instead of simply providing answers.
- Make Real-World Connections: Relate these discussions to their immediate environment. Investigate any incidents of discrimination in your community—what if a victim were someone they knew?
- Encourage Dialogue: Speak with friends, family, or neighbors who have encountered discrimination. Understanding their experiences can foster empathy in your children and deepen their cultural awareness.
- Self-Exploration and Evaluation
- Assess Your Own Biases: Everyone has biases; it’s a matter of identifying them. Consider taking the Harvard Implicit Association Test to uncover your own predispositions. Discuss these biases openly with others.
- Broaden Your Social Circle: Examine your friendships. Are they diverse? If not, take steps to connect with people from different backgrounds. This not only enriches your life but serves as a powerful model for your children.
- Commit to Lifelong Learning: Continuously educate yourself about diversity. There’s always more to discover. Read relevant literature, visit museums, and engage in discussions with a diverse group of friends to enhance your understanding of the world.
Our differences make life richer and more fulfilling. In troubling times, it’s easy to forget this. The world your children will inherit is a reflection of what we leave behind, for better or worse. They have the potential to reshape it into something beautiful and inclusive. What vision do you want to pass on to them?
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Summary
In a world fraught with division and discrimination, teaching our children cultural competence is no longer optional; it’s essential. By infusing diversity into everyday life, engaging in deeper conversations, and reflecting on our own biases, we can equip them to navigate and shape a more inclusive future.