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Research indicates that children younger than three years of age notice and comment on differences in skin color. Humans of all ages tend to ascribe positive qualities to the group that they belong to and negative qualities to other groups. Without guidance, children can develop biased attitudes from exposure to negative racial stereotypes, racial disparities, and segregation. Talking about race is not racist. It's important to do. Children are not colorblind. From a young age, children will notice and question racial differences, so it is important to be able to talk about race.
Students who are affected by racism and associated stress and trauma are likely to experience:
- Insecure feelings
- Lack of trust
- Feelings of isolation from others and from their community
- Difficulty controlling their emotions
Research also indicates that systematic racism is associated with poorer school attendance, lower academic achievement, lower self-esteem, higher rates of depression, and higher risk for suicide.
Highland's school psychologists are committed to creating a culture of inclusiveness and equity. We are offering these resources to parents and community members in order to assist with needed conversations about race, privilege, racial injustice, and discrimination.
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National Association of School Psychologists: Social Justice Resources
The following list of discussion guides, books, podcasts and other resources have been curated by members of NASP Leaders and Staff to help school psychologists, educators, parents, and students engage in learning, self-reflection, and meaningful discussion around the United States’ long history of racism, inequity, and social injustice against Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC).
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National Museum of African American History and Culture- Resources for Parents and Caregivers
Our goal is to help you to help children understand what race is, how it operates in society, and why race in America is important.
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APA: RESilience. Uplifting Youth Through Healthy Communication About Race
Racism, racial bias and racial discrimination affect children, yielding disparities in educational experiences, discipline, developmental outcomes and overall health and well-being. Many parents wonder what to do in order to help their children to process negative experiences and to develop strong identities and resilience despite these experiences.
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EmbraceRace.org: Eight Tips for Talking to Your Child About Racial Injustice
Research is clear: Children notice and comment on differences in skin color. Humans of all ages tend to ascribe positive qualities to the group that they belong to and negative qualities to other groups. Without guidance, children are likely to develop biased attitudes from exposure to negative racial stereotypes, racial disparities, and segregation. Take these steps to guide the kids in your life to be inclusive and just.
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HealthyChildren.org: Talking to Children About Racial Bias
Parents may better face today's challenges with an understanding of how racial bias works in children, as well as strategies to help them deal with and react to racial differences.
