Here are ways to help your child celebrate diversity:

• Remember that your child is watching you. Do you use slurs? Have you formed opinions about people based on their color, religion or culture? If so, your child may too.

• Talk about your own family background. Unless you are a Native American, someone in your family came here from another country. Remind your child that at some point, everyone has struggled to “fit in.”

• Let your child know it’s never okay to insult someone or treat someone badly because of his appearance or background.

• When you see or hear a stereotype, talk about it with your child. Remind him that your background does not show how smart you are, how good you will be at sports, or even what kind of food you like.

• Welcome people of many backgrounds into your home and your life. Encourage your child to do the same.

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