Have you ever watched a movie with your children and considered the lessons they are learning from the storyline?
Movies are capable of providing valuable life lessons like diversity and inclusion in addition to providing entertainment.
One important thing our children can learn from us is how important diversity and inclusivity are.
Embracing diversity is essential in today’s world, and movie magic is a great way to discuss these concepts.
This post will examine a few outstanding movies that can spark meaningful conversations about diversity and inclusion with your children.
Not only do these films tell fantastic stories, but they also provide valuable lessons on how to accept diversity, cultivate empathy, and cherish the rich variety.
Why Diversity and Inclusion Matter
Before we go into the list, let’s discuss why diversity and inclusion are so important. Children are naturally perceptive and inquisitive.
Their worldview is greatly influenced by the TV series, novels, and other literature they consume. Telling them tales from other cultures, eras, and points of view can encourage them to be more accepting of others.
Imagine this: kids begin to realise that there are a variety of individuals in the world when they encounter characters who don’t resemble them, speak different languages, or originate from distant locations.
They come to understand that rather than being frightening, these differences are something to be grateful for.
1. Coco (2017)
Have you watched Coco with your children yet? This Pixar animation features stunning visuals and a heartwarming tale showcasing Mexican culture.
Children learn about family, customs, and honouring our ancestors from Coco. Additionally, it acquaints students with the colourful traditions of Día de los Muertos.
You may ask your children, “What do you think about Miguel’s family traditions?” while they’re watching and “How does this holiday differ from ours?”
This might spark an interesting discussion about cultural differences and the need to accept them.
2. Zootopia (2016)
Zootopia entertains and excites kids while teaching them about embracing differences, including everyone, and breaking free from stereotypes.
Judy Hopps, the main character, is a rabbit with big dreams of joining the police force. She lives in a world where animals that once hunted each other now coexist peacefully for the most part.
As the plot develops, Judy discovers that everyone holds their prejudices, and it’s crucial to question them.
After viewing, you can talk with your children about how Judy’s adventures connect to real-world scenarios.
You might ask them, “Has anyone ever made assumptions about you? How did you react?” This can help them link the film’s concepts to their personal experiences.
3. Moana (2016)
Another great Disney movie, Moana, takes us on a grand quest across the Pacific Ocean, showcasing Polynesian culture and the strength of finding oneself.
Moana’s expedition shows bravery, tradition, and embracing one’s roots while also honouring the environment.
Watching Moana with your kids can start talks about different cultures and why it’s crucial to protect the environment.
You could ask, “What do you think Moana discovered from her ancestors?” or “Why should we care for our surroundings like Moana’s people do?” This helps kids value the knowledge that various cultures can share.
4. The Lion King (1994/2019)
You might like the original cartoon or the new live-action version better, but The Lion King tells a story that never gets old. It covers topics like family, duty, and how life goes on.
The story takes place in the African grasslands, so it’s also a chance to show kids the stunning African scenery and animals.
This movie can start chats about respecting nature and knowing our role in the world.
5. Inside Out (2015)
While Inside Out deals with emotions, it serves as an excellent film to teach kids about empathy and understanding how others feel, both key parts of inclusion.
The movie explores how an 11-year-old girl’s mind works, introducing characters that stand for her emotions: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust.
This movie can also help them build empathy and a better understanding of how our differences make us special.
It would help if you talked with your children after this movie specifically because you can connect with them on an emotional level.
Movies have a special way to capture our imaginations and hearts, and they can serve as effective tools to teach kids about diversity and inclusion.
By picking movies that honour different cultures, question stereotypes, and encourage empathy, you’re helping your kids grow into more open-minded and caring people.
For your next family movie night, think about choosing one of these films. You’ll enjoy a great story and take a crucial step to teach your kids about the beauty of diversity and how important inclusion is.
More Here: Top 5 Movies To Boost Creativity And Imagination In Kids
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