My kids were born in China. They attracted stares and crowds most places we went. Random people loved to touch their hair and ask them where they were from.
I spent a lot of time reflecting on what I can do to ensure that when the time comes for my kids to answer the “Where are you from?” question for themselves, they can do so with their heads held high. I want my kids to know their roots and be familiar with the depths of their culture. It’s not about being able to provide satisfactory answers to nosey perpetuators of microaggression. It’s about them being educated enough to appreciate and celebrate the richness of their culture.
My kids need to know that the skin that attracted so much attention is a beautiful gift, and the hair that was so often a source of fascination is actually a beautiful crown.
I know how important it is for kids to have access to a selection of culturally diverse toys. I know the difference these toys make and I see the delight they bring. Our Kids Trove is a toy shop with a difference. It’s a platform to showcase high-quality diverse toys. The word trove means “a store of valuable or delightful things”. The toys in our collection are so much more than fun, wholesome ways to pass time. These toys are powerful instruments of education and empowerment.