Tolerance is a word that conjures up vastly different things for different people. Some love the concept of teaching “tolerance” to our children and practicing it in their lives. Others see “tolerance” as a liberal buzzword with negative connotations. Whatever your initial view, stick with me for a minute here.

Tim Bellavia is a friend of mine and my husband’s from our college days. Tim is a kindhearted soul and gifted artist who has created a beautiful line of books and dolls that help teach children ages 4-8 that we are all the same inside.

Although some children live in parts of the world where they have a lot of exposure to people that look difference, dress different, and so on, many do not. So often when we do not get to know people that are “different” from us we tend to believe stereotypes and become less open to others.

Tim’s work helps children think more about the fact that people are people, no matter how they dress or look. Tim conducts workshops in schools where children get to make their own doll, right down to their skin, eye, and hair color, and designing their outfit.

I really love what Tim is offering to the world and wanted to share it with all of you. You can visit Tim’s website to learn more about his books, dolls, and workshops here. And here’s a video of Tim and some of the kids that he works with here: