Celebrating Uniqueness: It’s Okay for Kids to See and Do Things Differently

Brace yourselves for this truth: It’s okay for kids to see and do things differently! 

While we all know this down deep, it can be difficult to remember in a world so full of comparison that pushes us (or even our kids) to try to be something we’re not (or they’re not) in order to be like someone else. 

The reality is — we’re all different. We look different, we have different personalities, we like different foods, we enjoy different activities, and we see the world around us differently. Similarities may bring us together, but it’s our differences that make this world a beautiful and colorful place. In my journey with my incredible son Guion, who happens to have Down syndrome, I’ve come to cherish the beauty of encouraging my kids to see and do things differently while learning to embrace the different perspectives and abilities of others. 

Do you want to teach your kids to see the world differently and celebrate uniqueness? This doesn’t have to be tricky at all. In fact, it’s as simple as sparking a bit of curiosity and embarking on a new adventure together. Here are a few tips from my experience raising my three kids: 

4 Practical Ways to Teach Kids to See the World Differently

Teaching kids to see the world differently and celebrate uniqueness not only fosters a positive and inclusive mindset but also lays the foundation for a more compassionate and understanding society. 

1. Cultivate curiosity through experiential learning: Encourage your kids to explore the world around them through hands-on experiences. Whether it’s a trip to the zoo, a nature walk, or a visit to a local museum, engaging in experiential learning provides children with the opportunity to encounter diverse perspectives and ideas. Encourage them to ask questions, seek out new information, and appreciate the beauty in things they may not have encountered before. By fostering curiosity, you’re helping them develop an open-minded attitude towards differences!

2. Nurture empathy through storytime: Books are powerful tools for shaping a child’s perspective and you’re probably already reading to your kids. Make storytime more engaging by asking questions that encourage them to think about the different perspectives, backgrounds and abilities of the characters.  This not only broadens their understanding of the world but also instills empathy as they connect with characters who may be different from themselves.

3. Foster a growth mindset through trying new things: Teaching kids to embrace challenges and see failures as opportunities for growth is essential in shaping a positive mindset. Encourage them to view mistakes not as setbacks but as stepping stones toward improvement, embracing the “power of yet.” This mindset helps children develop resilience and openness to new ideas–ultimately shaping a worldview that celebrates both their individual strengths and the unique qualities of others.

4. Promote inclusive activities and hobbies: Engaging kids in activities that foster teamwork and collaboration can be transformative. Encourage them to participate in group sports, arts, or community service projects where they can interact with peers from diverse backgrounds. These shared experiences promote a sense of unity while highlighting the beauty of different talents and perspectives. By participating in inclusive activities, kids learn to appreciate the unique contributions each person brings to the table, fostering an environment where all abilities are celebrated! 

Teaching kids to see the world differently and celebrate uniqueness is a gift that keeps on giving. By cultivating curiosity, exposing them to diverse stories, fostering a growth mindset, and promoting inclusion, we empower our children to become kind, empathetic and inclusion individuals who appreciate the rich tapestry of humanity. As parents, educators, and caregivers, it is our collective responsibility to nurture a generation that not only sees the world differently but also values and celebrates the beauty of every unique individual! 

Inspiring the next generation of Curious B.E.I.N.G.s

Curious B.E.I.N.G.s are who we aspire to be, and we want to take you and your kids along for the adventure of leading a kind and caring life. As Curious B.E.I.N.G.s, we believe it’s important to…

• Be Kind. 
• Encourage Compassion. 
• Inspire Creativity. 
• Nurture Courage. 
• Grow Your Mind.

Will you join us? Explore our website, follow Curious B.E.I.N.G.s on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe to the Curious B.E.I.N.G.s newsletter to receive engaging, educational resources that will inspire the next generation of Curious B.E.I.N.G.s.