Sadly, a new Wits University study has found that South African children are intolerant of social groups they don’t belong to.
The recent #feesmustfall protests have done much to highlight the dire state of our country. And, as you may reluctantly remember, it was our children that played an active role in the spark of xenophobic attacks during May 2008. Have we reached such a stage of intolerance in our country that we cannot listen to one another anymore?
Why does that man have such dark skin? Or maybe, why is that girl in a wheel chair? We will all face our children experiencing or showing prejudice at some point but what we as parents say in these crucial moments can help to bridge the differences between people.
In our beautiful, diverse country we are surrounded by differences in ethnicity, religion, culture, disabilities and other differences. We look different. We live differently and we certainly act differently.
So, why should we encourage tolerance in our kids? Tolerance is not about accepting bad behaviour, but accepting people for who they are and treating them how you wish to be treated. Simply stated, tolerance is about recognising and respecting other people’s beliefs and practices without necessarily sharing them.
We as parents have a significant impact on how our kids react to people from different cultures and backgrounds. Hatred, prejudice and intolerance can be learned, but so can sensitivity, understanding and tolerance. Being tolerant of each other and caring for each other, is what makes us human.
So, mom and dad, cliché as it may sound, we have the ability to create a better world for generations to come.
In a world where tolerance levels are being stretched, it is vital for us as parents to teach our children the importance of tolerance – after all he/she is the future generation!
Source: www.learningtogive.org, books.google.co.za, childdevelopmentinfo.com, www.everydayfamily.com, www.parents.com, matadornetwork.com, www.sheknows.com, eee.education.com, www.psychologytoday.com, timesofindia.indiatimes.com, www.beyondintractability.org, micheleborba.com, www.iol.co.za
DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.