Preschoolers are notorious for their blunt honesty and obvious observations. Sometimes, however, they can say things in public that are loud and sometimes awkward. Here are some ideas on things you could say to your child:
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When your child comments that someone is really fat, has a large (insert body part), etc ...
Response: "People come in all shapes and sizes," or "A man who has a large belly or pointy nose might not like the way he looks, and it could hurt his feelings if he hears other people talking about it."
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Your child comments that an elderly person's wrinkles look ugly ...
Response: "Yes, she has wrinkly skin because she is older than we are, just like Grandma," or "Your body changes every year as you grow. You get bigger and stronger, and you get smarter. When you are a grown-up your skin starts to change, too. It happens to everyone."
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Your child is curious as to why a person is standing on the corner asking for food, money or a place to stay ...
Response: "She probably doesn't have money to buy food or clothes, so she is asking for it," or "Some people don't have a job so they may need to ask other people to help them out." [This is a great opportunity to teach your children about community service.]
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Your child asks why a lady is in a wheelchair ...
Response: "She must have trouble walking. The chair is what she uses to get around," or "Sometimes people's legs stop working the way they should and they need a wheelchair to help them get around." Remind your child that the next time he/she sees someone who has a disability that he/she should talk to the person rather than talk about them.
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Your child comments that someone has a different color skin than them ...
Response: "Yes, you are right. Skin comes in different colors, but skin is just the outside. We all look the same inside."
from the April 2009 issue of Parents magazine
