Toys + Games to Help Teach Kids About Diversity
We often expect our kids to understand things like kindness, inclusion, and diversity but we don’t always take the necessary steps to talk to + teach about those concepts. A few weeks ago I’m sad to say that I was under the impression that if I was just a kind person and treated others with respect that would be enough to show my kids the importance of treating others equally, regardless of the way they look or who they are.
I’ve since learned that in order to truly teach my kids about race, anti-racism, and inclusion we need to make talking about race and differences as important as talking about our similarities. If you’re like me, you might be a little confused as to where to start. Kids learn so much through play and this is no exception. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite finds online to not only increase the diversity of your kids’ toys, but to also create a space to have an open dialogue about race at home without having to make it feel overwhelming for you or your kids.
Additionally, I’ve created an “Anti-Racism” highlight on my Instagram page where you can find even more online resources, toys, games, and books as well as links to fantastic Instagram accounts that I’ve already learned so much from. In the meantime, check out the round-up below — I hope it’s as helpful for you as it has been for me!
One // Kids Around the World Finger Puppets // Finger puppets are a great way to encourage imaginative play with small kiddos and I love that these include a diverse group of faces and skin tones.
Two // Friends and Neighbors: The Helping Game // Play is a great way to teach kids and this is no exception! You can use this game to talk to kids about helping others, especially those outside of their normal circles.
Three // Crayola Multicultural Markers // As a white person I’ve never had to wonder if there would be a skin tone crayon or marker that would look like me. These are a great addition to any craft supply kit and can help show your kids that representation matters.
Four // Basket of Babies Plush Dolls // This is a great toy to introduce diversity to your kids, especially the smaller ones. This can also be a good way to bring up race and differences in a positive way.
Five // World People + Family Set by LEGO // I love these larger LEGO figures because they’re perfect for smaller hands. The set includes a variety of adults and children so they’re perfect for talking to kids about blended families.
Six // I Never Forget a Face Matching Game // Memory games are great for cognitive learning and this one is ideal for exposing kids to a more diverse group of people than they might see in their own neighborhood or community.
Seven // Create a Face Printable // These printables are super affordable and come in a variety of options. They would be perfect for creating a gallery wall, too.
Eight // People Shapes // Another great item to have in the craft supplies drawer! Not only do these help show kids what inclusivity looks like but it also normalizes the presence of other skin tones.
Nine // Children Just Like Me Sticker Book // If there’s one thing kids love, it’s definitely stickers! This huge sticker book includes representation for a variety of skin tones, cultures, and nationalities.
Ten // Maya the Mermaid Doll // Y’all know my kids love their Cuddle + Kind dolls and this mermaid option is so sweet! I love the idea of getting both the large and small versions for siblings.
Eleven // Wonder Crew Superhero Buddy // If you have a kiddo that’s into superheroes, then this toy is perfect for you! I also love that he looks like a toddler so your kiddo can see themselves represented by their toys.
Twelve // Feelings Poster // This one is a great tool to help kids name their feelings while exposing them to a diverse group of their peers.
Thirteen // Bundle of Babies // Baby dolls and toys are a great way to introduce your kiddos to the idea of a new sibling or family member joining the group. Plus as with any dolls, they’re great for imaginative play.
Fourteen // Dinkum Doll // Can you tell I’m a fan of baby dolls? I love the heirloom quality of this one and the bright yellow romper is so precious.
Fifteen // My Family Builders Block Game // I love solid wooden blocks for small ones because they can handle a lot of abuse and still maintain their integrity! These are great for teaching and play.
This is definitely just the start of making diversity and inclusion a part of the regular conversations in our house and I’m excited to put this new-to-me knowledge to use. Let me know if you’ve found any great toys or resources that are working well with your kiddos!
