Where to Start? Read and Talk

I am so disheartened by the events in Charleston, VA this past weekend. Unfortunately, it sheds light on the fact that racism is taught and still very much alive today. It also reminds us that love, authentic conversations and mutual respect must occur even more. As an educator and mom, I often wonder what children will say, ask, think and do. One thing I know is that they will live in their innocence without hate and discrimination if we as adults show up in their lives by having real conversations, allowing them to have a voice and instilling in them a belief that they are special as they are. To that I would add that we must also teach them tolerance, respect for all, and that all lives matter.

To often we are afraid to speak about race until events such as Charleston occur, yet these are not isolated events. The unheard of acts of hatred occur daily, but so do selfless acts of love and hope. Sometimes these acts that promote mutual respect start with a book.

If you are lost as to how to begin a conversation with a young child about what is happening in the world, I offer these books as a starting point. Click on the book title to be taken to a link where you may purchase.

Skin Again: It touches on the topic of race by repeating the fact that the skin I am in is just a covering. It reiterates the fact that to know me you must come inside. The real story of us all lies inside.

Let's Talk About Race: This book explains the difference between race and culture. It also addresses the fact that some people have a misconception about what makes us unique and it is not your race. It helps kids see that we are all the same inside and we each have a story. I love the closing line of the book which says, I will take off my skin, will you.

We're Different, We're the Same- This simple book from Sesame Street helps even the youngest citizens learn that yes, we are all different but yet we share so many things in common. It is a great book to help young readers and learners embrace the diversity among races and even learners in their classes and communities.