Four Ways Families Can Help Children Practice Inclusion

Helping children learn to be inclusive is an important part of raising kind, confident, and

community-minded individuals. Children often have empathy and kindness for people they know well; the challenge is helping them extend that care to others who may feel different, new, or left out. Families play a key role in guiding children to notice others, build inclusive skills, and lead with kindness.

Here are four simple, meaningful strategies families can use to help children practice inclusion in everyday life.

1. Help Children Notice Others

Sometimes children who feel socially comfortable may not realize that others around them feel unsure, left out, or new. Gently drawing attention to others helps build awareness and empathy. Simple prompts can encourage children to think beyond their immediate circle, such as noticing who is new, who might be sitting alone, or who could use a welcoming gesture. Learning to notice others is the first step toward inclusion.

2. Teach Children How to Include

Inclusion is a skill—and skills can be taught and practiced. Young children benefit from modeling and role-playing what it looks like to reach out kindly. Families can help children practice simple actions such as smiling, inviting someone to join an activity, offering a compliment, or finding a shared interest. Children should also learn that if someone says no, that’s okay—and that it’s kind to try again another time or offer a different option.

3. Talk Openly About Similarities and Differences

Children naturally notice differences in how people look, communicate, learn, and move. These moments are opportunities to build understanding rather than discomfort. Families can talk openly about the many ways people experience the world and explain that differences are a normal and valuable part of community life. Reading diverse books, learning about different abilities, cultures, and traditions, and answering children’s questions honestly helps them develop respect and appreciation for others.

4. Model Kindness and Inclusion Every Day

Children learn inclusion by watching the adults around them. The way caregivers greet neighbors, welcome newcomers, and show interest in others sends powerful messages. When families model kindness, empathy, and openness, children are more likely to reflect those behaviors in their own interactions. Small moments—introducing someone new, offering reassurance, or helping a child feel welcome—can have a lasting impact.

Building Inclusive Communities Starts at Home

Inclusion grows through everyday actions, conversations, and examples. When families help children notice others, practice inclusive skills, understand differences, and lead with kindness, they are nurturing values that strengthen families, classrooms, and communities.

At National Indian Child Care Association, we believe inclusion supports the well-being of children and reflects the values of respect, care, and community that help all children thrive.