Let's face it, there are many difficult and deep topics we have to address with our children at different ages and stages but there are some that are more difficult than others. I think the ones that have been the hardest, in my experience, are the ones that shatter a piece of innocence in my children's lives. Topics like child abuse, illegal drug use, bigotry and sexism to name a few. In the past week, our household had to cover the topics of racial inequality and racism and it definitely was the hardest yet. I don't think anything opens adult eyes and minds more than when we have to break down big things into bite size pieces for children. The stark contrast between right and wrong in a child's mind is so crystal clear and unclouded by all the noise of our world and so their questions and input are something I cherish.
I'm sure you have been grappling with this in your household lately too so I thought I would include a few helpful links as family resources to support you, our readers.
Age Appropriate Discussion Tips:
- I found a great article on Parents.com with tips for each age on how to fight hate and racism.
- If you prefer a video, CNN did a wonderful video on how to talk to your kids about protests and racism.
Books for Children:
- A comprehensive list of books are available at Coloursofus.com and are organized by age appropriateness.
Something Happened in Our Town follows two families — one white, one Black — as they discuss a police shooting of a Black man in their community. The story aims to answer children’s questions about such traumatic events, and to help children identify and counter racial injustice in their own lives. Includes an extensive Note to Parents and Caregivers with guidelines for discussing race and racism with children, child-friendly definitions, and sample dialogues. Ages 4–8. You can order it in the link above or watch a reading of it on YouTube for free.
Activism:
Our kids wanted to know how they can make a difference right now. Here are some sites you can explore with your family and get involved today.
I hope you find this article a little helpful during these important times. We can definitely do better as a society and we, as parents, have a tremendous responsibility toward helping create a brighter future for our children and their peers. If you find some resources you would like to share with our readers, please post in the comments below.
