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Quote of the Week
"It is time for parents to teach young people early on that in diversity there is beauty and there is strength." -- Maya Angelou
Video: What Does Diversity Mean?
In a global society where people of different cultures, religions, traditions, abilities and backgrounds live alongside each other in many countries around the world, it has become increasingly important for parents to speak to their children about the beauty of diversity. Many of us may feel that by embracing diversity ourselves as parents and/or by living in diverse communities, our children will naturally share our outlook and our values. However, this may not be enough, and in fact it is becoming increasingly necessary to vocalise what diversity is all about to our children. It is helpful for parents to proactively share with their children what they can do at an individual level to genuinely empathise with and embrace people from different backgrounds, cultures, abilities, religions and beliefs.
This week's feature is a short animation specifically designed for primary school aged children to learn about how they can celebrate the diversity in their communities and understand life from different people's perspectives. Take a few minutes to watch it together with the children in your life. [watch video]
With the festive season upon us, you might also enjoy watching this music video, which brings to life how people celebrate holidays from different cultures around the world!
Reading Corner
 Title: Sanjaygawa and the Yak Whisperer: A Story of Hope for Young Ones of All Ages
Ages: 4-adult
Why? "When people in Tibet greet one another, instead of saying “Hello”, they press the palms of their hands together and say, “Tashi Deley” – which means, “I Honor the Greatness in You.” The story of Sanjaygawa and the Yak Whisperer is a hope-filled appeal to Young Ones of this generation and the next and the next, to “Honor the Greatness” in human beings of all races, religions, cultures, and creeds. It is an invitation to see each other in a new way, and to love the beauty of the diversity on this planet. The story calls us to dream together of a world where people care enough to resolve their differences without harming each other or the Earth. This timeless message magically unfolds when a young shepherdess wonders out loud if there is anything just one person could do to help heal her world. If Young Ones everywhere dare to ask that question with open hearts, they, too, will hear Sanjaygawa’s call and choose to live the miracle of peace in their lifetimes. TASHI DELEY!" -- Publishers
Recommended by Barry Richmond
Be The Change
After watching the short animation video on diversity, have a circle of sharing with your family, inviting each person to reflect on what they took away from the film. Share one intention you plan to integrate into your day-to-day lives, as vocalising an intention is often the best way to ensuring that you act upon it.
If you prefer something more hands-on and creative for your children, you might like to try one of the ideas suggested on this blog, 5 Hands-On Activities to Teach Your Children About Unity.
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