Helping parents find calm, kind, and confident words when children notice differences. Teaching children about diversity and inclusion.
Teaching children about diversity and inclusion is one of the most meaningful responsibilities parents have today. Not because it requires perfect words, but because it shapes how children see others and how they see themselves.
When kids notice differences, many parents freeze. Not because they don’t care, but because they’re unsure what to say.
How do I explain this kindly?
Am I saying too much or not enough?
What if I say the wrong thing?
These moments are more common than we think, and they matter.
That’s why we created this conversation.
Watch First: What to Say When Kids Notice Differences
In this episode of Ask SuperKids, our founder Innia Pereira and BCBA Valentina Meneses share simple, loving, and practical ways to respond when children notice differences in behavior, communication, or abilities.
This conversation is designed to help parents feel calm, confident, and supported, not pressured to say the “perfect” thing.
Why Teaching Children About Diversity and Inclusion Matters
Children are naturally observant. They notice how people move, speak, learn, and interact with the world around them.
When adults respond to those observations with honesty and kindness, children learn empathy instead of fear, curiosity instead of judgment, and confidence instead of confusion.
Teaching children about diversity and inclusion helps them develop emotional awareness, respect for differences, and a strong sense of belonging.
Inclusion does not start at school or in therapy. It starts at home, in everyday conversations.
What to Say When Children Ask About Differences
You don’t need complicated explanations or technical language.
Simple, honest responses are often the most powerful.
Phrases such as “Everyone’s brain works differently,” “Some people use words to communicate, others use pictures or devices,” and “Different doesn’t mean wrong, it just means different” help normalize differences and keep the conversation open without adding fear or judgment.
How Play and Stories Naturally Teach Inclusion
Books, play, and daily routines are some of the most effective tools for teaching inclusion.
Stories that represent different abilities, cultures, and family structures help children see diversity as normal, understand others without pressure, and build empathy through connection.
Reading and playing together creates space for gentle conversations and helps children associate inclusion with safety and joy.
You may also explore inclusive parenting resources from organizations such as http://Understood.org or Autism Speaks, which offer helpful guidance for families.
Modeling Inclusion in Everyday Life
Children learn far more from what we do than from what we say.
They pay attention to how we speak about others, how we respond to differences, and how we handle challenging moments.
When empathy and patience are modeled consistently, kindness becomes part of who they are, not just something they are told to practice.
Making Space for Questions Without Fear
If your child asks why someone behaves or communicates differently, curiosity is not something to shut down.
It is an opportunity.
Responding with openness teaches children that it is okay to ask questions, okay to learn, and okay to be different.
That is how understanding grows.
Creating Inclusive Experiences
Inclusion also grows through shared experiences.
Inclusive playgrounds, community activities, and group settings allow children to connect naturally with others at their own pace. The goal is not forced interaction, but exposure, shared joy, and authentic connection.
Teaching Inclusion Is a Journey, Not One Conversation
You don’t need all the answers today.
Small conversations, repeated over time, shape compassionate adults.
Progress doesn’t come from one perfect moment. It comes from consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teaching Children Inclusion
How do I explain autism to my child in a simple way?
Use clear and honest language and focus on the idea that everyone’s brain works differently.
What should I say when my child notices differences in public?
Respond calmly, normalize differences, and model kindness through your tone and words.
At what age should I start teaching inclusion?
Inclusion can be introduced as early as toddlerhood through play, books, and everyday conversations.
A Final Note for Super Parents
By teaching children about diversity and inclusion, you are doing more than answering questions.
You are building a foundation for kindness, confidence, and connection.
That work matters.
Need More Support as a Super Parent?
Explore our parent resources here.
If you ever have questions, staying connected with your ABA therapist can make a meaningful difference: this is for you.
Together, we make it better! ✨