Helping our children understand identity and diversity isn’t about being politically correct. It’s about raising people who can connect, listen, and care. Children who are confident in who they are and comfortable with who others are.

Why These Conversations Matter

Helping our children understand identity and diversity isn’t about being politically correct. It’s about raising people who can connect, listen, and care. Children who are confident in who they are and comfortable with who others are.

Inclusion builds empathy, prevents bullying, and creates belonging. It also prepares kids for a future where they’ll work, live, and lead in a global, multicultural world.

Practical Ways to Nurture Inclusion at Home

Research shows that children as young as two begin to notice racial differences, and by age five, they may already begin to form biases. That’s why early and consistent exposure to inclusive ideas and diverse role models is so important (Katz & Kofkin, 1997). Teaching inclusion is most effective when it's embedded in daily life, not reserved for a single lesson.

Research shows that children as young as two begin to notice racial differences, and by age five, they may already begin to form biases.

You don’t need to be an expert to raise an inclusive child. But small, consistent actions go a long way:

1. Name Differences Without Shame
   Teach kids that noticing someone’s religion, language, or family structure isn’t rude—it’s part of understanding. Use real words: “Yes, he uses a wheelchair to get around.”
   
   

2. Start with Books, Stories, and Screens
   Kids absorb what they see. Make sure your shelves, shows, and conversations reflect different identities—race, gender, ability, and more.
   
   

3. Make Space for Curiosity
   If they ask a hard question, don’t rush to close it down. Try responses like, “That’s a great question. Let’s find out together,” or, “What do you already know about that?” This encourages deeper dialogue and shows that curiosity is welcome.
   
   

4. Practice Inclusive Language
   Instead of “mom and dad,” try “grown-ups” or “families.” These small shifts teach kids that there are many kinds of love and care.
   
   

5. Model Learning and Unlearning
   If you make a mistake, name it and fix it. Kids learn humility, repair, and growth when we own our missteps.

Apparently: Support When You’re Not Sure What to Say

Sample resource: Our Identity Conversation Guide includes conversation starters like, “Have you ever felt different? What helped you feel better?” and activities like drawing a “family culture tree” to explore shared values and traditions. Parents who’ve used these tools report more confident, empathetic dialogue at home.

Apparently helps parents respond with clarity, kindness, and confidence—especially when the questions feel big.

What we offer:

• Expert-led resources on talking about race, gender, culture, and identity.

• Smart tools that suggest age-appropriate books, videos, and talking points.

• A real parent community for stories, Q&As, and support.

Our “Inclusion & Identity” series helps families explore what it means to belong, celebrate differences, and create a home where every identity is respected.

Raising Inclusive Kids Starts at Home

You don’t need to have every answer. But showing up with curiosity, compassion, and courage—that’s the work. And you don’t have to do it alone.

Download Apparently and explore practical ways to raise inclusive, open-hearted kids. Try it free for 14 days or subscribe for just $5.99/month.

Let’s create a world where every child feels they belong, just as they are.

Bibliography:

• Inclusive Teaching: Understanding and Supporting Diversity - Teaching and Learning Resource Center - The Ohio State University

• 5 Ways to Create an Inclusive Culture at Home - Read Brightly

•  4 Strategies for Raising an Inclusive Child - Bright Horizons