Teaching Kids About Racism

By Sonia Park and Richstone Staff

The kids are watching. Hundreds of protests across the country are demanding an end to over 400 years of systemic racism. With the current political climate, it can be a little overwhelming to talk to your kids about racism.

Unfortunately, racism is learned. Research shows that kids are treated differently based on skin color as early as preschool. While Black parents teach their children about racial differences for their protection, White parents often avoid the topic all together because it can be very uncomfortable to discuss. However, children begin picking up nonverbal cues from adults early in their lives, so avoiding discussions about race can become a learned trait.

Kids generally know what is fair and unfair, which is a strong foundation to discuss injustice. Allow your child to lead the conversation and don’t be afraid to share what’s going on internally with you, as a parent. In a brief, simple, and direct way, identify your own personal feelings and discomfort. Channel your inner empathy and compassion. Don’t be afraid to admit the things you have yet to learn. Show your child how you are committed to promoting justice and equality.

Although you can’t always control what happens in the world or what is aired on the news, you can discuss current events and key issues and help your child develop an understanding of them. By practicing anti-racism, you and your child can establish accountability and help create a safe and inclusive environment in which to learn and grow.

Books to help teach your little ones about racism

I am enough by Grace Byers

Skin Like Mine by Latashia M. Perry

The Colors Of Us by Karen Katz