Race, Racism and Children
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”
-Nelson Mandela
Conversations with young children about race and racism are often quite difficult for parents. In light of today’s world, they are most important. When deciding how much information to give your child, only give them as much as they can absorb. What you tell your 3 year old will look quite different from what you would tell your 6 year old. Although each conversation will be different, we want to give children the tools they need to be informed and thoughtful to make this a kinder world.
Conversations with young children about race and racism are often quite difficult for parents. In light of today’s world, they are most important. When deciding how much information to give your child, only give them as much as they can absorb. What you tell your 3 year old will look quite different from what you would tell your 6 year old. Although each conversation will be different, we want to give children the tools they need to be informed and thoughtful to make this a kinder world.
When approaching this topic as it is with many others, it is important that you be as honest and forthright as you can. If your child asks a question you don’t have the answer to, it is okay to let them know that. You may be uncomfortable and want to revisit the question at a later time after you have had a chance to think more about it. Remember one thing, children are very clever and without having talks, they may form their own ideas about people which many times are not what you believe in.
Children learning from adults is not limited to discussions. They will mimic many behaviors modeled by you and easily follow your lead. They also internalize conversations they may overhear you having with a spouse, parent or friend which many times become misconstrued as they may not understand all that is being said.
Teachable moments can be found in everyday life. One example might be: you are out with your child and he/she points to a person who looks different than themselves and makes a comment or asks a question. This is natural curiosity for a child so try not to be embarrassed by this scenario and shush them, Instead, take this as a teachable moment that is happening organically. As difficult as it may be out in public, try to answer their question and give them the exact information you want them to have.
Books are a wonderful tool to start the important conversation on race and racism at the earliest age. Whoever You Are, by Mem Fox, is an old time favorite. In this book the message is clear - we may all look different on the outside and live differently, but we are all human and inside our bodies, we are all the same. Watch 'Whoever You Are' Read-Aloud
Resources:
www.PJLibrary.org
www.EmbraceRace.com
Talking Race With Young Children
How to Talk to Kids About Race
EmbraceRace
