DEIB for Parents' and Carers' Toolkit
DEIB for Parents' and Carers' Toolkit
Toolkit collated by Emma Sheppard and Krystian McInnis
Whether you are a parent, or an educator who is also a parent, supporting our own children to show up in the world confident in their own identity, and with compassion and understanding of the identities around them, is a hugely important task.
Children begin to notice differences as early as six months old, and this noticing prompts curiosity, reflections, questions and the formation of their own identity. However, this also forms the basis for receiving socially constructed negative stereotypes which can emerge as early as two and a half years old, and this stereotyping can impact the way they perceive themselves and others.
- Empowering your children to understand and feel confident in their own identities
- Introducing, and helping your children to learn about identities other than their own
- Having important conversations around diversity, equality, inclusion and belonging with young children
- Educating yourself about parenting in a way that models inclusion and belonging
This toolkit is a taster into the resources and opportunities available, not an exhaustive list. However, many of the tools featured will lead you on to further websites, podcasts, reading recommendations and helpful communities.
The Diverse Educators’ DEIB Parents' and Carers' Toolkit
- What are the key concepts around inclusion, equality, and belonging that I want my child to understand?
- How do I educate myself about different identities, cultures, and experiences to model inclusivity?
- How can I help my child feel proud and confident in their own identity?
- What role do I play in shaping the way my child sees the world and their place in it?
- How can I support my child if they experience exclusion or bullying due to their identity?
- How can I introduce my child to the concept of intersectionality, where different aspects of a person’s identity can shape their experiences?
- What are some age-appropriate ways I can help my child understand the importance of respecting all identities, including LGBTQIA+, race, disability, and gender?
- How can I teach my child that interests, behaviours, and careers are not limited by gender stereotypes?
- How can I help my child understand neurodiversity and why people think and process information differently?
- How can I ensure my child feels comfortable asking questions about LGBTQIA+ identities without fear of judgement?
Articles
Blogs
Books
Ozonoff, Sally, Dawson, Geraldine and McPartland, James C.
A Parent’s Guide to High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder, Second Edition: How to Meet the Challenges and Help Your Child Thrive