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DIFFERENT AND THE SAME

Different and the Same is an interactive, video-based program designed to educate children in grades K-3 around difficult diversity issues that exist within the elementary school environment.  

Using character models to tackle these issues, Different and the Same gives educators the tools and resources to initiate discussions with children around acceptance, fairness, inclusion and respect. Participating schools can be found within Omaha, District 66, Papillion LaVista, Council Bluffs and Blair educational systems.

Over the years, Inclusive Communities has conducted a number of Different and the Same Educator Trainings for nearly all of the local school districts.  Many schools are still using the curriculum and new teacher trainings are currently being developed.  Those interested in participating are encouraged to call the Inclusive Communities office at (402) 391-4460 right away!

Importance of Helping Elementary Students Respect Diversity

As our community becomes increasingly diverse, classroom make-up is also changing.  Many children are entering school and, for the first time, exposed to a wide range of issues of difference.  While some children appear to be unphased by their new, diverse community, others may have questions, become distracted or feel uncomfortable in the setting… leading to more serious issues, including bullying.

According to a simple questionnaire developed by researchers at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital and the Stanford University School of Medicine, 9 out of 10 elementary students have been bullied by their peers (Science Daily). What's more, nearly six in 10 children surveyed in the preliminary study reported participating in some type of bullying themselves.  Previous research has shown that, without intervention, bullying behavior persists over time: a child who is a bully in kindergarten is often a bully in elementary school, high school and beyond. Kids who are routinely victimized exhibit higher levels of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts than do non-victims. Such statistics highlight the importance of programs like Different and the Same that raise awareness and model a respectful and inclusive school environment.