Unity in Diversity: Embracing Each Other

Green Bay Area Mom
Feb 6, 2024
2 min read

This post is sponsored by Lisa J. Bellile LLC, author of United We Learn.

Celebrate Differences

When you expose children to the concepts of diversity and self-identity at an early age, you equip them to recognize themselves and others. This awareness empowers them to cultivate critical thinking skills and the agency to advocate for positive change.

Caregivers and educators play a crucial role in assisting young children in recognizing various social components of their identities, such as ability, interests, family structure, and more.

Help children talk about and explore differences:

lead by trying something new
explain why differences exist
model kind and inquisitive questions
help children see differences as a strength
respectfully notice and celebrate differences
consider changing the rules of a game for all to play

Book Spotlight

In United We Learn by Lisa Bellile, follow Annabelle Jenkins on a tour of her school, United Elementary, where she shows us the value of diversity and inclusion.

The story includes rich vocabulary and is told from the viewpoint of an elementary-aged Golden Retriever, Annabelle, who embodies maturity and silliness. All species of animals are welcome at United Elementary, and the staff ensures that the necessary adjustments are made for the success of all students.

United We Learn emphasizes the importance of embracing differences and celebrating each individual’s uniqueness. The social and emotional learning (SEL) competencies that are in this book include: