Here at I See Me! we want to provide helpful resources to parents about talking to your kids about racism and prejudice. We understand that can be challenging for parents to explain what is happening in the world. But by discussing these complex concepts with kids, you can positively impact their growth and development. Even at a young age, children can learn about kindness and compassion. Instead of being silent or using a “colorblind” argument, it’s important to explain why a child of a different skin color may be treated differently or bullied. Without this explanation, children might infer that the social inequities they see are natural or justified. To help parents talk openly with their kids about social inequality, we’ve put together a list of up-to-date resources.
How to Talk to Kids about Race:
Parents Magazine: Anti-Racism for Kids: An Age-by-Age Guide to Fighting Hate
New York Times: Talking to Kids About Racism, Early and Often
Today’s Parent: White parents: Here’s how to (and how not to) talk to your kids about racism
Washington Post: How black and white families are talking about racism in a time of reckoning
TODAY Show Online: How to talk to kids about racism, protests and injustice
Read Brightly: How to Talk to Kids About Race: Books and Resources That Can Help
National Geographic: Talking to kids about race
NPR: Talking Race With Young Children
60-minute CNN special: “Coming Together: Standing Up to Racism. A CNN/Sesame Street Town Hall for Kids and Families” will air on Saturday, June 6, at 10 a.m. ET. The show will talk to kids about racism, the recent nationwide protests, embracing diversity and being more empathetic and understanding.
Communication is the first, important step to teaching kids about racial inequality so they can grow to be compassionate adults and leaders.