We Could Learn a Lot From Crayons

Some are sharp,
Some are dull,
Some are light,
Some are dark,
Some have unique names,
and are all different colors,
But they all have to live in the same box.

Discussion:

Appreciating diversity is valuing what makes us similar as well as different. This poem talks about learning to live together and appreciating the unique qualities of others. Encourage participants to look around themselves and take note of all the things that make them who they are.

This poem is special because it can be adapted to discuss all areas such as gender, age, physical abilities, intelligence levels, racial/ethnic backgrounds, economic status, beliefs, family structures, places of residence, and so forth.

Example Question & Prompts:

How are people similar to a box of crayons?

1. Have you ever met someone with a name that was new to you? How did it make you feel?
2. What are some ways people can be different from each other?
3. If everyone in your class liked the same things, would that be fun? Why or why not?
4. How can we be kind to people who look or sound different from us?
5. What's something special about you that makes you unique?

💚 For another hands-on way to explore diversity and challenge assumptions, check out Diversity Beans: A Sweet Lesson in Unconscious Bias—a fun and interactive tool that sparks meaningful conversations about inclusion.