Difference is an opportunity: how to encourage your child to discover others?

Encouraging children from a young age to embrace interculturalism gives them the opportunity to break free from stereotypes linked to the vision of the other. Discovering and accepting the differences of a culture, of a person who lives in a different way… that's a gift! If you too envision a peaceful future for children, join us in reading this article!

An increasingly safe world

Steven Pinker, cognitive psychologist and professor at the universities of Massachusetts and Harvard, is firmly convinced of this. In his book "« The angelic part of us«"He demonstrates that the world in which we live today is becoming increasingly peaceful. Violence is declining. The number and intensity of conflicts are decreasing. Civilizations are becoming more peaceful.".

But then why do we have this fear of the other?

Television news reports are unequivocal: the world is dangerous. The other is a threat. The Apaches, the Teddy Boys, and other youths from the projects are different faces of the same figure, the same stereotype. They alone embody the fears and fantasies of our unconscious minds. These archetypes, although devoid of substance, make us aware of our own vulnerability and, in fact, push us towards a feeling of insecurity and fear of the other. But wouldn't it be more powerful to negotiate with our own illusions by dismantling them through contact with others?

Brotherhood, that's the only thing that's real!

Fraternity, enshrined in the motto of the French Republic, is a value we must respect and defend. But what is fraternity? Why is it so important?

Beyond its definition as the bonds of siblings, fraternity is also a link that unites all people. Fraternity means accepting to live together. It also means helping and welcoming others with kindness, just as they are. Like the principles of liberty and equality, fraternity is essential for living in peace. In short, it allows us to build connections and transforms difference into an opportunity in everyday life.

What is discrimination?

Discrimination, which is the desire to separate one or more people based on criteria, is found in racism, homophobia, sexism, etc. It has long been the object of struggle for many figures in our history (and unfortunately still is today).

 »"We must learn to live together as brothers, or we will all die together as fools."»

Martin Luther King

Drawing inspiration from committed public figures and showcasing their actions is a first step in helping children deconstruct the stereotypes and prejudices they may encounter in their daily lives. It's also a wonderful opportunity for families to (re)discover the historical figures of yesterday and today who have shaped history.

Children learn through contact with others

As parents, you are your child's anchor, their point of reference. If they see you adopting this open-minded approach to the world, they will naturally want to imitate you because they trust you completely. By opening themselves up to others, your child observes differences more closely and is enriched by these numerous social interactions. The concepts of mutual support, solidarity, and contributing to society will become more familiar to them than ever before, thus fostering their altruism.

Open-mindedness is the agility of toddlers.

Babies are naturally open-minded and altruistic from birth. While this is a largely innate quality, open-mindedness should still be encouraged in children every day.

To do this, you can:

• Set an example As children grow up, they imitate or repeat what they see or hear around them. They absorb all your actions and words. Therefore, from a very young age, it's important to do everything you can to convey the best possible image to them. Remember that your prejudices shouldn't become theirs.
• To consider them as adults in the making They may be small in stature, but their brains are already sharp, make no mistake! Children possess all the skills to participate in a discussion and contribute to a debate. Reading, watching documentaries, talking with other families in the neighborhood or at school… anything is possible! Listen to their fears or anxieties and discuss them together to help them understand and deconstruct them.
• teach them several languages : introduce children to multiple languages as early as possible, It allows them to open up more and break down barriers in their interactions. Traditional songs, nursery rhymes, or animated films in their original language—today there's an abundance of choice on the web.

Zero judgment goal

Difference should exclude judgment: this is the phrase every child should hear. The goal is zero judgment, by making differences a strength and accepting ideas that are not our own.

In short

Let us commit ourselves in the image of the signatories of the International Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), ...to build a world worthy of children. Discovering others, their cultures, their knowledge, are immeasurable riches to offer and share. Let's embrace the spirit of humanism with our children!

Our articles on the same topic

• How can we encourage cooperation and altruism in children?

To go further

• Discover Laurent Mucchielli's book "« Insecurity, a feeling of insecurity: the two veins of a political issue » ;
• Watch the video on the story of Rosa Parks ;
• Read "« Difference is an opportunity »"by Jean-Philippe Murat.".