How Does Anti-DEI Rhetoric Affect Kids?

I recently read an article explaining that a conservative group wrote a guide to provide parents with the “knowledge” needed to oppose DEI.

After I finished reading the article and shaking my head in astonishment, I felt compelled to respond by writing my own article offering parents with the tools needed to protect their children from harmful anti-DEI propaganda.

Anti-DEI Impact on Raising Children

Let’s start with a basic description of how anti-DEI rhetoric can negatively impact how parents raise their children.

Increased Parental Burden: Since diversity and inclusion principles are restricted in schools, parents feel more obligated to teach their kids about these values themselves. This can be particularly stressful for parents who may not have the resources or expertise to address these complex issues effectively.
Navigating Conflicting Messages: Children may be exposed to conflicting messages about diversity and inclusion at home and in school. This can make it more difficult for them to understand and navigate these essential social issues.
Increased Stress and Anxiety: As they deal with these politicized issues, parents can feel more stressed and anxious. In a climate where inclusive values are under attack, parents are often concerned about the social and emotional growth of their kids.
Restricted Access to Resources: Parents who want to raise their kids in an inclusive and welcoming society can find that their access to resources and support systems is restricted by anti-DEI policies.

Parents’ Response

Now let’s take a look at some ways parents can counter the impact of anti-DEI noise on their children:

Early in your child’s development, have age-appropriate discussions about gender, race, and other identities.
Pay attention to your child’s worries and acknowledge their emotions.
Encourage candid conversations without fear of judgement.
Read books, watch documentaries, and interact with a variety of media that encourage inclusivity and understanding to educate yourself and your kids.
Talk to your kids about any anti-DEI propaganda they come across and explain why it’s inaccurate and dangerous.
Encourage connections and friendships with individuals from different backgrounds.
Engage in neighborhood gatherings and groups that support inclusivity and diversity.
Treat everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of their background. Encourage your child to do the same.

Sample Conversations

We saved the best for last. Here are three specific examples of conversations parents can have with their children to nullify the negative messages of anti-DEI propaganda.

1. The “Rainbow Friends” Conversation (Age: 5–7)

Parent: “Have you ever noticed that some people have different skin colors? Some are brown like chocolate, some are pink like strawberries, and some are like sunshine!”

Child: (May offer observations or questions)

Parent: “That’s right! Just like flowers come in different colors, people come in all sorts of wonderful colors too! And just like we love flowers of all colors, we should love people of all colors.”

Parent: “Imagine a world full of rainbow friends! Wouldn’t that be amazing?”

2. The “Superhero Team” Conversation (Age: 8–10)

Parent: “You know how superheroes have different powers? Some are super strong, some are super fast, and some are super smart.”

Child: “Yeah, like Iron Man and Spider-Man!”

Parent: “Exactly! Just like superheroes, people have different talents and skills. Some are great at drawing, some are amazing at sports, and some are really good at helping others.”

Parent: “The best superhero teams are made up of people with all sorts of different abilities. We need everyone to make the team strong!”

3. The “Kindness Counts” Conversation (Age: 11–12)

Parent: “Have you ever heard someone say mean things about someone because of their skin color or where they come from?”

Child: (May share an experience or express concern)

Parent: “It’s not okay to treat people differently because of things like that. Everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect.”

Parent: “What can we do if we see or hear someone being unkind?”

Child: (May suggest ideas like talking to a trusted adult or standing up for the person being treated unfairly)

Parent: “That’s right! Kindness always wins!”

These sample conversations are meant as examples only of honest and open dialogue with your kids.

Keep in mind that there’s no need to make specific accusations about someone being “wrong.” The goal is to address harmful ideas and promote critical thinking by encouraging your child to evaluate information and form their own conclusions.

Over the next four years, kids are likely to witness a barrage of anti-DEI rhetoric that’s in stark contrast to the kindness and respect principles that MOST parents want to impart to their children.

Be proactive.

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This article was written by DEI for Parents.

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This post was previously published on medium.com.

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