Teaching children about different faiths — with love

One of the most powerful gifts we can give our children is a wide perspective. When kids learn about different faiths, traditions, and worldviews early on, they develop empathy, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of the world.

Start with stories, not doctrines

Children learn best through stories. Share the parables, myths, and tales from different traditions — not as competing truths, but as different ways humans have tried to understand kindness, bravery, and love. The story of the Good Samaritan, the Buddhist tale of the blind men and the elephant, the Hindu story of Lord Ganesha — these are all doorways into conversations about what matters.

It's okay to say "I don't know"

When children ask big questions — and they will — don't be afraid to admit uncertainty. "I don't know, but let's explore that together" is one of the most honest and powerful things a parent can say. It teaches kids that questioning is healthy, curiosity is a virtue, and that love doesn't require absolute certainty.

Model acceptance every day

More than anything, children learn from what they see. When they watch you treat people of every background with respect and kindness, when they see you engage with different perspectives with genuine curiosity rather than fear, they absorb a lesson more powerful than any Sunday school curriculum.