Writing for Scholastic's online Teachers publication, educator Linda Ross ("Connect with Kids and Parents of Different Cultures") asks readers to analyze their own assumptions about various cultures. She also asks teachers to go out of their way to establish better communications with parents. Among the things teachers can do, Ross recommends a newsletter, careful listening, trust-building, the location of resources, and the inclusion of parents in classroom activities.
The mirrored actions that parents can take would logically include contacting teachers and asking for details about school in general and their child, in particular. Parents should also speak up, of course, and volunteer to take part in classroom activities.
Author Susan Von Tobel has additional suggestions for those who would like to do their share in promoting intercultural understanding. The word "difference" appears often in her recommendations. "Be accepting of differences between you and your child," she tells other parents. She also encourages parents to "point out to children how they are different from their siblings, their friends, and their classmates." The next step, of course, is to honor and respect those differences. Evidence of Von Tobel's philosophy can be found in her charming book about intercultural adoption: Mei-Ling's Forever Mommy.
By helping children appreciate their uniqueness and the uniqueness of the children with whom they have daily exchanges, adults will be developing children's self-confidence at the same time. To some extent, helping children develop a positive self-image is the responsibility of all parents and all teachers. Without it, children will, in all likelihood, enter adulthood with serious issues that can prevent living a fulfilling and successful life. Von Tobel also advises parents to read books to their children about different cultures, religions, and diversity; and to take children to the various cultural events most cities offer.
Fifty years ago, when John F. Kennedy was president, he commented on international conflicts, many of which still exist. In prescient words, he acknowledge the long-standing macrocosmic battles, but also the microcosmic ways we can work toward peace: "If we cannot now end our differences, at least we can help make the world safe for diversity." Each of us has a role to play in that endeavor.