Disclosure :: This post is sponsored by the Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital.
Teaching Children Social Acceptance
Acceptance is not just a subject you discuss now and then or only practice at certain times. It is an everyday value that shows the world the person you are and the characteristics you uphold. As a parent or caregiver, you are the most influential person in your child’s life. What children learn about social acceptance begins with you.
What is Social Acceptance
Social Acceptance is the process of being included and respected by others. It can be defined as accepting differences in others including the color of a person’s skin, their gender, or a disability. It is the act of embracing everyone and making them feel welcome regardless of these differences.
The Importance of Teaching Empathy and Kindness
Social Acceptance is important for all but especially school-aged children who will be exposed to other individuals who may not look like them. It is fundamental that children learn this at an early age because it will help them be more successful in their interactions with different people. Empathy is the ability to understand the emotions of not only yourself but those around you. Once a child develops empathy, they can learn ways to express kindness to build relationships with peers and adults. Children will soon discover that empathy and acts of kindness will help them to work cooperatively, which leads to productive problem-solving.
Teaching Strategies
There are many ways to teach acceptance to children. It first starts at home; parents should be role models and demonstrate how to treat all people with respect and kindness. Discuss what differences can look like; people may talk differently, walk differently, or learn differently. Visual prompts can be used to help increase a child’s understanding. Consider reading books and watching shows that have characters with a variety of differences. Expose children to other cultures and find out what makes them unique. Use sports or other group activities to encourage teamwork. Finally, teach conflict resolution skills and the importance of letting everyone have a voice.
Your influence as an adult can alter a child’s beliefs and behavior toward others. When we teach and practice social acceptance, it leads to a better and kinder world.
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About the Author: Jeanne Renee’ Ancar, MA, Parent Educator
Jeanne obtained her master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with a passion for the 
development of young children both cognitively and socially. She has over 6 years of experience with individuals who are clinically diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder as well as other intellectual/ developmental disabilities. Jeanne is skilled in behavioral science, early intervention, and Applied Behavior Analysis Evidenced Based practices. Throughout her career, she has enjoyed providing professional development as well as coaching and training staff members. Jeanne looks forward to bridging the gap and bringing her clinical expertise to the Parenting Center. events, and oversees all aspects of membership and registration.
