New York has always been one of the most dynamic and diverse cities in the world. From language immersion preschools to parades that celebrate backgrounds of all kinds, there is no shortage of opportunities to teach tiny citizens about other countries and cultures. These days, it feels more important than ever to educate our future world leaders about respect and tolerance. Need some ideas on how to get started? Here are some of our favorite NYC spots that promote understanding and appreciation of different races, ethnicities and cultures.

The Noguchi Museum

Housed in a converted industrial building in Long Island City, The Noguchi Museum boasts the world’s largest collection of sculptures, drawings, architectural models and more by Japanese-American artist Isamu Noguchi. It holds several art programs for children ages two through eleven, some of which are offered in Japanese. Open Studio is a drop-in class held on the first Sunday of every month that encourages families to explore the galleries and make art in response to their experiences. The museum also offers family walking guides at the front desk. Be sure to visit the Museum in late January to see the new exhibit Self-Interned, 1942: Noguchi in Poston War Relocation Center. It marks the 75th anniversary of the Executive Order that authorized the internment of Japanese citizens and American citizens of Japanese heritage living on the west coast. It examines Isamu Noguchi’s extraordinary decision to voluntarily enter the Poston War Relocation Center, in the Arizona Desert, despite being exempt from internment as a resident of New York.

Hours: Wednesday through Friday 10 am – 5 pm; Saturday and Sunday 11 am – 6 pm; closed Monday and Tuesday

Admission: $10; ages 12 and under are free

The Noguchi Museum
9-01 33rd Road
Long Island City
718-204-7088

Online: noguchi.org

Photo: The Noguchi Museum’s Facebook Page

 

What’s your favorite NYC spot to help kids learn about other cultures? 

–Michelle McIvor Cohen

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