Why Race Education Should Be Taught In The Early Years Sector

When we teach kids early on that it's OK to talk about race, ethnicity and nationality, we help them to understand more than 'we are all special'. At about age 2 years, children begin to notice gender and racial differences. At 2 ½ or so, children learn gender labels and the name of colours – which they begin to apply to skin colour. Around 3 years of age, children notice physical disabilities. At about 4-5 years, they start to display gender appropriate behaviour and may become fearful of differences. Diversity activities teach young children to respect and celebrate the differences in all people. Learning about different cultural aspects offers new experiences for children. It also helps them realise that we’re all humans and that all have special aspects that make us different in amazing ways! In how we look or dress, or what we eat or celebrate, we can embrace each other.

Games and activities offer a fun way for young children to learn about differences and similarities among people and to introduce the concept of diversity. This blog will introduce you to many resources and tips to improve the teaching of Race Education in the Early Years Sector.