Diversity and Inclusion Activities for Kids

Children notice differences from a very young age: skin color, languages, families, abilities and traditions. How we talk about differences shapes how they see the world. These activities help children celebrate diversity, show respect and include everyone, at home and in the classroom.

Why it matters

Teaching diversity and inclusion helps children:

• Feel proud of who they are.
• Respect and appreciate others.
• Build friendships with all kinds of people.
• Notice and stand up against unfairness.
• Grow into kind, open-minded adults.

Start the conversation

• Answer questions openly. If a child asks "Why is her skin brown?", answer simply and positively: "People have lots of different skin colors. Isn't that wonderful?"
• Don't shush curiosity. Children learn that differences are bad if we hush them.
• Talk about fairness. "Everyone deserves to be treated kindly."
• Celebrate both differences and similarities. "We look different, but we both love football."

15 activities

1. All about me. Children draw themselves, their family and their favorite things, and share with others.
2. Family trees. Explore family backgrounds, languages and traditions.
3. Skin tone art. Mix paints to match everyone's skin tones. Talk about how there are so many beautiful shades.
4. Friendship coloring. Color our Best Friends pages, which show different friends together.
5. Celebrate festivals. Learn about Diwali, Hanukkah, Lunar New Year, Day of the Dead and others.
6. Hello around the world. Learn to say hello in different languages.
7. Food tasting. Try foods from different cultures, perhaps from classmates' families.
8. Diverse books. Read stories with characters from many backgrounds, abilities and family types.
9. Music and dance. Listen to music from around the world and try different dances.
10. Map of our class. Mark where everyone's families come from on a map.
11. Same and different. Pair up and find three things you have in common and three that are different.
12. Inclusive games. Play games where everyone can join, and adapt rules so everyone can take part.
13. Kindness posters. Make posters about including others. See teaching kindness.
14. Different abilities. Learn about sign language, braille and how people with different abilities live and play.
15. History heroes. Learn about people who fought for fairness, such as during Black History Month.

Inclusion in everyday life

• Notice who's left out. Encourage children to invite others to play.
• Use inclusive language. Talk about "families" rather than assuming every family has a mum and a dad.
• Choose diverse toys. Dolls, books and pictures that reflect many backgrounds.
• Celebrate many holidays throughout the year.

When children say something hurtful

Children sometimes repeat things they've heard or say something unkind about differences. Stay calm:

1. Address it right away, kindly but clearly.
2. Explain why it's hurtful.
3. Ask how the other person might feel.
4. Talk about what to do instead.

Ideas by age

Ages 2–4: diverse books, dolls and songs from around the world; simple answers to questions.

Ages 5–7: all about me, festivals, hello in different languages and friendship coloring.

Ages 8–10: family trees, history heroes, maps and discussions about fairness.

Ages 11+: deeper conversations about prejudice, current events and how to be an ally.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Saying "I don't see color." Children do see differences. It's better to celebrate them.
• Only learning about other cultures during holidays. Weave diversity into everyday life.
• Treating cultures as costumes. Focus on understanding and respect.

Frequently asked questions

At what age should I talk about diversity?

From very early. Even babies notice differences. Simple, positive conversations from toddlerhood work well.

How do I answer awkward questions in public?

Answer simply and positively, and continue the conversation later at home if needed.

What if I don't know much about other cultures?

Learn together. Books, libraries, community events and families from different backgrounds are great resources.

Build a diverse bookshelf

Look at your child's books and ask:

• Do the characters come from many backgrounds and cultures?
• Are there different family types?
• Are there characters with disabilities?
• Do the books show people in a range of jobs and roles?
• Are some stories written by authors from the communities they describe?

Add a few new books at a time. Libraries are a great free way to explore.

Classroom inclusion ideas

• A "welcome" poster in all the languages spoken by families in the class.
• Celebrations calendar with festivals families celebrate.
• Partner activities that mix children who don't usually play together.
• Adaptations so every child can join in games.

How do I talk about disability with children?

Use simple, respectful words, focus on what people can do, answer questions honestly and encourage friendships.

How can I make my home more inclusive?

Choose books, toys, music and art that reflect many cultures and family types. Invite friends from different backgrounds, try new foods together and talk openly about what makes each family special. Small, everyday choices matter more than one big lesson.