Talking to your children about racism can be tough, but it’s important to keep the lines of communication open and educational from early stages.  Raising race conscious children will help start conversations about racism when they are a bit older.

We’ve got you covered with a few children books that can help start honest conversations about race and racism.

More, More, More Said the Baby

Written and illustrated by Vera B. Williams (Ages 0-2)

You can read this adorable book to your toddlers about multiracial backgrounds and use it as an opportunity to talk about the different races of the characters.  You can grow the conversation with your kiddies by talking to them about people of different ethnicities in their own life.

What’s the Difference? Being Different is Amazing

Written by Doyin Richards (Ages 2-10)

This book tackles diversity and acceptance for its young readers.  It teaches children that what matters most is not our differences, but what we do together as families, friends, colleagues and citizens.

The Stone Thrower

Written by Jael Ealey Richardson and illustrated by Matt James (Ages 4-9)

This children’s book tells the story of the author’s father Chuck Ealey, growing up as a Black kid in a then-racially segregated Ohio. Although faced with poverty and racial taunts, Chuck had unbeaten records as a quarterback in high school and university due to his resilience and determination.  Even though he was very talented, he sadly wasn’t chosen to play in the NFL because of his race.  Instead, he became a quarter back in the CFL and led his team to win the Grey Cup in 1972.

 

 

Filed under: black-history-month