There are many different types of families, today. Here are some statistics to keep in mind: 

• one million children will see their parents separate or divorce this year;

• 1.4 million children are being raised by their grandparents;

• nearly 500,000 children are in foster care at any one time;

• one million children live with adoptive parents;

• 6 to 10 million children have lesbian, gay, and bisexual parents.[1]

Everybody – kids, teachers and parents – should avoid generalizations about people based on their sexual orientation, or any other characteristic. Kids should remind each other they deserve respect from others, and if they feel otherwise they should talk to someone they trust. Respecting people and their families is part of this. 

Talking with kids about respect can start with questions “Have you seen other kids teased for being different?” “Have you ever experienced that?” “What does respect mean?”

Tolerance means that you can respect the differences of others, not that you necessarily agree with them. Different families have different values.

Talking with kids about family diversity and respect supports a safe and supportive school environment. Part of this discussion is emphasizing that there are consequences for disrespecting others.

When it comes to your personal interactions with others, it all boils down to the word: "respect." And your kids are no different. Just as every kid should respect those around them, they should absolutely expect the same in return. Kids who feel respected from an early age are more likely to give respect in return. This is why starting early listening to your kids, and continuing as they grow, is so important.

Check in with your kids—, see how they feel about classmates, the teachers and other people at school. Ask if your child feels respected, and if kids at school are tolerant of others. Emphasize the importance of being respectful to both peers and adults, regardless of their race, religion, age, or any other characteristic.

Most importantly, your kids need to hear from you—and need to see you as a good role model for respectful behavior. Avoid racial slurs, and generalizations about people based on their nationality, religion, language, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic. You might be surprised how much your kids will pick up and start repeating themselves. Remind your kids that they deserve respect from others, and if they feel otherwise they should talk to you.

Want to learn about what to talk about when? Click here for some tips on talking to your kindergartener, elementary school-age child, and middle school student.