Empowering parents to guide their kids with the knowledge and empathy to thrive in a diverse world.

Monthly parent diversity newsletter with resources to help parents keep up with what kids are learning at school with regards to all types of diversity. Teaching empathy to kids, DEI programming reduces bias in schools and creates a positive school climate. Read on to gain a deeper understanding.

Read time: approx. 4 min

Why You Can Trust DEI Guidance from a School-Based Expert

Hi, I’m Eden — a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Coordinator at a K–12 school, and I help families and educators talk to kids about diversity, teach empathy and respect, and build a positive school climate. If you’re feeling unsure about how to start these conversations at home, you’re not alone.

As the first full-time staff member focused on DEI at my school, I understand how overwhelming it can feel to begin. That’s why I created this blog — a resource designed to offer digestible, monthly insights on diversity, reducing bias, and inclusive practices tied to what’s happening each month.

Each post gives practical tips, context, and resources to help you explore the topics that matter most to your family.

As a parent, you’re likely short on time. I’m here to give you information that is tailored to a boys school context. I spend my days surrounded by students like your kids - young minds growing into global digital citizens. I hear what they say, see what they see, and want to help parents break that down.

Save your time searching and scrolling. I’m here to give you a monthly summary of DEI topics and a curated list of resources to break down complex issues. By signing up for our newsletter, you can receive this curated list right to your inbox - once a month, no spam. 

What Do Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Really Mean for Kids and Schools?

Image description: A painting with a mosaic background that reads "You belong."

Artist unknown, image credit: Tim Mossholder

To make sure we all build off of the same foundation, let’s clarify what diversity, equity, and inclusion really mean. The following are defined by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety.

• Diversity:
  • The variety of identities found within a group. Diversity is expressed through factors such as culture, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, language, education, ability, family status or socioeconomic status.

• Equity: 
  • The principle of considering people's unique experiences and differing situations, and ensuring they have access to the resources and opportunities that are necessary for them to attain just outcomes. Equity aims to eliminate disparities and disproportions that are rooted in historical and contemporary injustices and oppression.

• Equality: 
  • The principle of treating everyone in the same manner by ensuring they have access to the same resources and opportunities. Equality does not necessarily lead to fair outcomes since it does not consider people's unique experiences and differing situations. 

Note: as educators, we are aiming for equity rather than equality when we consider students’ needs.

• Inclusion: 
  • The practice of using proactive measures to create an environment where people feel welcomed, respected, and valued, and to foster a sense of belonging and engagement. This practice involves changing the environment by removing barriers so that each person has equal access to opportunities and resources and can achieve their full potential.

Why DEI Programming Is Essential for a Positive School Climate

Are you wondering why diversity and inclusion is important in kids' education?

DEI programming at school is crucial because it gives students the space to engage as their authentic selves. Although teenage girls are more likely to report declines in mental health, men’s mental health is declining at a staggering rate. In a time when young women are reporting higher rates of poor mental health and 50% of men are at risk of social isolation, it is crucial for young people to know how to connect with each other.

The pillars of diversity, equity, and inclusion in education bring people together, bridging knowledge across differences. Since many teenagers are less likely to talk about their mental health, it is important that schools put proactive measures into place for students to feel seen. In addition to mental health counseling, DEI programming serves students’ needs by offering a platform for them to showcase who they are. By understanding and appreciating differences, students learn to respect and value each other’s unique qualities, leading to stronger bonds and minimizing social isolation. 

Beyond deepening students’ relationships, DEI education prepares students for fruitful futures by exposing them to multiple viewpoints. By practicing empathy and critical thinking skills, students who engage in DEI education are learning how to become better teammates, classmates, and future professionals. 

Addressing Common Misconceptions About Diversity

Some might think that focusing on diversity and inclusion means giving preferential treatment to certain groups. DEI education, however, is about creating equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of their background. Integrating DEI into schools does not mean lowering standards but rather enriching the learning environment for all. Everyone benefits from a diverse and inclusive school culture, as it promotes mutual respect, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of the world.

What Parents Should Know About Teaching Diversity, Empathy, and Respect to Kids

You don’t need to be an expert in all things DEI to talk to your kids about diversity. My suggestion is simply to make sure your kid knows that you are open to hearing their perspective, and know that you are a safe resource to talk through sticky subjects with.

My first tip is to use everyday moments to integrate lessons of inclusivity. DEI values always need to be discussed when situations are difficult or serious. Whether it's a news story, a book, or an interaction with a peer, simple instances can highlight the importance of diversity. Using everyday moments helps to normalize conversations about diversity and can make them a regular part of your kid's life.

Finally, parents can model taking an interest in diversity and inclusion in their own lives. Whether it’s taking an active interest in global issues, reading books by diverse authors, or watching movies to catch a glimpse of other cultures, your interest in DEI can signal its virtues to your kids. 

July 2025 DEI Resource Round-Up for Parents and Educators

July 14th is International Non-Binary People’s Day. Here are some resources to boost your understanding of what it means to be non-binary.

• Read:

Straight for Equality: Guide to Being An Ally to Trans and Nonbinary People 
PFLAG’s (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) guide offers definitions of terms and elaborates on how to be an ally. Their clear images and approachable tone make this guide a great place to start.

• Listen:

  • NB: My Non-Binary Life, podcast from BBC Sounds
    
    • In this podcast, Caitlin Benedict and Amrou Al-Khadi ask big questions about gender identity. Each of the 8 episodes in the series focuses on a different stage or aspect of life as a nonbinary person. 
    • Click here to listen
      

• Watch:

*Note! These are not suggestions for kids. These are for parents to gain some insight into what being nonbinary looks like (or how it is represented in the media!).*

• • Cal Bowman - "Sex Education" (played by Dua Saleh): Cal sparks important discussions on gendered dress codes and dating as a non-binary person.
  • Dr. Kai Bartley - "Grey's Anatomy" (played by E. R. Fightmaster): The show's first non-binary character, Dr. Bartley, receives commendation for their authentic portrayal and the opportunity to address their gender identity.
  • Mae - "Feel Good" (played by Mae Martin): Mae's character, portrayed by non-binary comedian Mae Martin, explores gender identity in season two, contributing to the show's popularity and representation.
    *Trigger warning for substance abuse*
  • Adira Tal - "Star Trek: Discovery" (played by Blu del Barrio): Adira's introduction as the first non-binary character in the Star Trek franchise resonates with fans, and Blu del Barrio's personal journey reflects their own real-life coming out.

Get this monthly round-up of DEI resources from a school-based practitioner by subscribing to my parent diversity newsletter. You'll hear from me once a month, no spam.

Image Credits:

1 - Dunn, Lisa. "What Is Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)?" Inclusion Hub.

2 - Tim Mossholder, via Unsplash.

3- Anderson, Jill, "The Future of DEI in Higher Education."

4 - Created by Eden Schwartz using Canva.

5 - “Straight for Equality: Guide to Being An Ally to Trans and Nonbinary People.” PFLAG.

6 - Reynolds, Sam. “Non-Binary Representation in 9 TV Shows.” Bowie Creators.

Sources Cited: