n Singapore, we are more than lucky to enjoy living in a country where multiculturalism is actively promoted through many aspects of our lives. This can be seen through instances of cultural diversity education taking place from a very young age in preschools and kindergartens. Outside of the classroom, we are given public holidays on … Continue reading "Diversity in Singapore, Beyond Racial Harmony Day" The post Diversity in Singapore, Beyond Racial Harmony Day first appeared on SmileTutor
n Singapore, we are more than lucky to enjoy living in a country where multiculturalism is actively promoted through many aspects of our lives.
This can be seen through instances of cultural diversity education taking place from a very young age in preschools and kindergartens. Outside of the classroom, we are given public holidays on festive holidays of the four major races, like Lunar New Year, Hari Raya, Deepavali and Christmas.
Hopefully, having the public holiday off allows you to participate in the festive activities of your friends or family of a different cultural background.
While these informal social norms have seamlessly integrated themselves into the Singaporean way of life, simply learning about different cultures in the classroom or celebrating their holidays might seem like a very surface-level experience.
If you want to take the opportunity to provide a more in-depth education experience on racial harmony, keep on reading to find out some helpful ideas to foster an inclusive mindset in your child.
Cultural Diversity Exposure:
Exposure to many different races and cultures might already take place in the classroom. However, to cement your child’s learning, it might be worth your while to take part in some cultural exposure with your child! Seeing their parents place importance on educating themselves in different cultures and customs is a great way to lead by example to your young and impressionable children.
Encourage your children to engage with people from different cultural backgrounds through activities. When your friends of different races and cultures invite you to their festive events, try to take the time to bring your children along. There is no immersion like experiencing a different culture firsthand. Exposing your child to friends of different cultures allows them to see the nuances of cultural events outside of the classroom or textbook, providing a much more personal experience.
In Singapore, many cultural festivals, often display some sort of educational material about the festival and its origin. Taking your children along with you to experience a cultural festival not only provides them with a fun day out but allows them to learn about a different culture in a fun and engaging manner.
Another way to foster a love for different cultures would be through visiting museums showcasing various cultures, or participating in community events that celebrate diversity.
Education on Different Cultures:
Outside of events, festivals and museums, there are often more passive ways to show off the beauty of having a diverse social circle.
In today’s media, many television shows and movies place importance on having a diverse cast with a wide range of races, cultures and abilities. Streaming services like Disney and Netflix have a wide range of children’s content either featuring leads or casts with a diverse racial background or promote shows and movies centred around different cultural festivals and holidays.
Seeing a child just like them on popular media, surrounded by many different friends from all sorts of backgrounds, may encourage children not to be afraid to socialise with other children who may not look or sound like them.
It is very important to show children that despite their differences, it can be wholesome and enriching to play with someone who seems different. It is good to enforce the mindset that differences are not something to be afraid or ashamed of, but something to be celebrated and cherished.
Introduce children to books, movies, and educational materials that depict diverse cultures in a positive light. Teach them about different traditions, languages, and customs to foster understanding and respect for cultural differences.
Inclusive Play and Social Activities:
Encourage children to engage in diverse playgroups and social activities. This provides opportunities to interact with peers from various backgrounds, fostering friendships that transcend cultural differences. Inclusive play helps children recognize similarities and appreciate differences.
When children make friends with peers of different racial backgrounds, the firsthand experience helps them to remove any fear and distrust that they may have over their perceived differences.
Children, and many adults, often fear or distrust what they don’t understand. By exposing them to a wide range of different cultures through experiences or the media, you are promoting a worldview that not only accepts differences but celebrates them.
Model Inclusive Behavior:
Parents and caregivers can lead by example by demonstrating inclusive behaviour and language at home. This includes avoiding stereotypes, promoting empathy, and addressing any discriminatory behaviour or language that children may encounter
Create an open environment where children feel comfortable discussing topics related to race, ethnicity, and cultural diversity. Encourage questions and provide age-appropriate explanations to help children develop a nuanced understanding of racial harmony and diversity.
Overall, I believe that it is very important to foster an open mind in children, especially when it comes to being accepting of people from different backgrounds- be it racial, social or financial.
Not only does it promote a culture of inclusivity, allowing people to feel accepted regardless of race or status, but it also enriches the worldview of you and your child.
People of different backgrounds and cultures have their own unique worldview, perhaps based on their upbringing, religion or cultural norms. Socialising with a wide range of people allows you to expose yourself to these many world views, broadening your horizons in turn.
A broad and accepting mindset allows you to be open to new ways of thinking, problem-solving and learning, allowing you and your child to grow and mature into eclectic and accepting people.
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