As much as we want to teach kids to be colorblind and oblivious to other people's differences, kids are wired to notice when people don't look, act or live the same way they do. Even babies can recognize physical differences in people when they're shown pictures. But what they're not wired to do is exhibit prejudices; those attitudes are learned. {relatedarticles}So what's a parent to do when kids point out people who are disabled, of a different race or of a different family dynamic? Some might want to clam up or admonish the child for pointing out differences, but this behavior simply adds stigma. All a preschooler is doing is making an observation, not a judgment, when she says something like "That girl's skin is brown." Acknowledge that she's correct in the observation, then say something like, "Right, and she's got pigtails like yours!"
Keep discussions light - younger children can't really relate to discussions about racism quite yet. Exposing children to diversity - with toys, books, educational shows and playmates that portray different people - is a great way to open discussions and break down stereotypes. Avoid shows and movies - particularly old "classics," in some cases - that portray negative stereotypes. {relatedarticles}We may not think of a villain portrayed with a heavy accent and exaggerated features as a stereotype, but kids might. The same goes for women portrayed in limited social and professional roles - that message may become internalized for children who are exposed repeatedly to it. Parents are their children's best role models when it comes to teaching tolerance, so examine your own behavior carefully.