As a parent, you might be thinking, “Really? Another thing I have to consider for my kids?” I understand; keeping our children safe and nurtured is a monumental task in itself. However, this is a skill that has become essential rather than optional: cultural competence.
Recent tragedies—including the nightclub shooting in Orlando and the distressing incidents involving Alton Sterling and Philando Castile—underscore a long-standing truth: discrimination, fear, and hatred persist in our society. Despite our best efforts to shield our children from these harsh realities, they will eventually inherit a world still grappling with these issues. It is crucial that we prepare them to navigate and contribute positively to our increasingly diverse society.
What is Cultural Competence?
In essence, it involves understanding one’s own cultural identity and perceptions of difference while learning and appreciating the diverse norms and values of others. It’s the recognition of both the unique qualities within cultural groups and the shared characteristics across them. This awareness translates into attitudes and behaviors that enable effective interaction in cross-cultural contexts.
How to Cultivate Cultural Competence in Our Children
Now that we have a definition, how can we actively cultivate this skill in our children? Here are several strategies to consider:
- Infusion
Music: Does your child enjoy music? Introduce them to various genres from around the world. Resources like the Putumayo World Playground album and platforms like YouTube provide an excellent opportunity for a family jam session.
Art: Engage your child in an art project that emphasizes diversity. For example, have them outline their body on a large sheet of paper and fill it with words and images that reflect their identity. Encourage family and friends to do the same, fostering an understanding of both similarities and differences among individuals.
Books: Although few books feature diverse characters, many excellent options exist. For a curated list, check out Culturally Competent Kids for recommendations spanning from infancy to young adulthood. - Dig Deeper
Have Meaningful Conversations: As children mature, it’s vital to discuss difficult topics openly. If they are aware of recent violent events, provide historical context and encourage them to think critically. Allow them to ponder the complexities instead of providing all the answers.
Connect to Their Reality: Encourage them to reflect on instances of discrimination within their community. Ask them how they would feel if the victim were someone close to them.
Foster Dialogue: Engage with friends and family who have experienced discrimination. Discuss their feelings and perceptions, and encourage your child to ask questions. These conversations foster empathy, a crucial component of cultural competence. - Self-Exploration and Evaluation
Assess Your Own Biases: It’s essential to recognize that everyone has biases. Start by taking the Harvard Implicit Association Test to uncover your own. Then, share your findings with someone close, whether it’s your partner, child, or friends.
Examine Your Friendships: Are your social circles homogeneous? Make an effort to diversify your connections. Invite someone from your child’s school or a colleague to your home, allowing your child to observe the beauty of varied perspectives.
Commit to Lifelong Learning: Continuously seek out educational opportunities related to diversity. Read, visit museums, and engage in discussions with a diverse group of friends. This will enhance your understanding of the world and equip you to communicate your insights to your children.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it may be easy to focus on the negatives, our lives are enriched by the diversity around us. As we prepare to pass on the world to our children, we must empower them to shape it into a place that reflects their dreams and values. The question remains: what vision do you want them to carry forward?
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