Hands up for Racial Harmony Day!

Beyond donning ethnic costumes or trying traditional food and games from different cultures, how about talking to your child about this important day on the school calendar? Here are some conversation starters. 

By Lim Jun Kang

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Racial Harmony Day is commemorated in school, but how can parents do their part?

By encouraging healthy conversations with our children about the different cultures and religions in Singapore. A little goes a long way into nurturing kindness and building empathy in Singapore’s multicultural and multi-ethnic society.

Here are some conversation starters you can try: 

“What new things have you learnt about your friends who might be different from you?”

“How can your friends know you better?

Encourage your child to be curious about people from different backgrounds and to be proactive in connecting with them. Each culture brings unique perspectives, customs and knowledge to our society, and we can help our children to get to know their peers better by understanding what is special about their backgrounds.

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“How can you show kindness and be caring towards your friends and others in school?

“If a friend has been left out, what can you say or do to be kind to that person?”

In school or at the playground, encourage your child to take the lead to include everyone in their activities. For example, they can invite a new classmate, friend or neighbour to play together.

Acts of kindness, however small, can foster harmonious and meaningful relationships. Children can also become more sensitive to the differences and feelings of others.

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We play an important role in helping our children respect and appreciate the diversity and harmony that we have in Singapore.

Beyond conversations with your child, there are also hands-on activities you can partake in together at home.

The Kindsville Times Junior (for Primary 1 and 2 students), Kindsville Times Adventure (for Primary 3 and 4 students) and A-OK! (for Primary 5 and 6) are publications given to all primary school student. They contain comic strips, sticker sheets and quizzes, fostering fun while promoting a deeper appreciation of racial harmony as well.

Ask them for their copy to work on the activities together, or find the e-copy here:

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