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LET'S TALK ABOUT RACE, BABY
Black History Month is almost over, but the conversation about race should continue. It can be a challenging topic, especially for white parents of young kids. But the topic can also be tricky for parents of color. How much do you say, and when? How do you keep it simple but effectively communicate your own values with a toddler who just learned the word “Why” and deploys it to casually expose your blind spots?
- Follow their lead, then build. Kids notice race very early, but around 2 or 3 years old, they may start verbally acknowledging race and asking questions about it. Do not ignore their comments or questions, change the subject, or downplay their curiosity or observations. Answer their questions directly, but use simple terms.
- Lead by example. Don’t just talk about your values to your kids. It’s important to surround them with people who are different from them, especially if you are raising white children who may not see racial diversity at home. Be conscious of the diversity of characters in books or dolls you get your kids. Find films, art, and community spaces that will expose your children to other races.
- Keep going, keep talking. The conversations about race and racism with your kids will evolve over time, but they shouldn’t end. If you demonstrate openness to their questions, your kids will continue the conversation as they begin observing more of the world. There are many resources available to support these conversations - we love this video of Sesame’s Abby Cadabby on CNN talking about racist bullying and the importance of taking a stance against it.
It’s important to have these conversations with your children. Silence and avoidance is powerful, and it can tell kids that race is a bad topic they should avoid. It’s important to push through your own discomfort, educate yourself, and bring your children along.
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PARENTING BUZZ: GOOD NEWS HAS ENTERED THE CHAT
- First RSV vaccine for newborns gets fast-tracked - Pfizer’s vaccine for pregnant moms to protect their babies for up to 6 months from RSV has been granted priority review by the FDA. That means they’ll review the application within 6 months. Hallelujah, but also - do it faster, please-and-thank-you.
- Nightly atropine eye drops may slow near-sightedness for kids - New research from Hong Kong shows nightly drops may slow the progression of, and maybe even prevent, near-sightness in kids 4 - 9 years old. Many optometrists are already prescribing the treatment.
- United Airlines is rolling out a family seating policy - If you’re flying United with your kids, the seating engine will now automatically try to seat you with your child, no extra charge. The feature should be fully functional by early March.
- Inflation is pushing school meal programs to the brink - schools around the country are struggling to provide nutritious meals for kids as food and labor costs remain high. Federal waivers from the pandemic have expired, and we’re back to seeing school meal debt, at more than $19 million this year.
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FOR PARENTS WHO AREN’T SURE HOW TO TALK ABOUT RACE
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A Kid's Book About Racism by Jelani Memory
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We All Belong: A Children's Book About Diversity, Race and Empathy by Nathalie Goss
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The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles
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The Youngest Marcher by Cynthia Levinson
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Skin Like Mine by LaTashia M. Perry
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This information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. We do not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any informationor advice contained here. Goji may earn compensation from affiliate links in this content.
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