We want students to come to school and feel proud of who they are. We want them to be able to share their beliefs, their values, their traditions and their interests without the fear of judgement. I tell students that if this isn't true for them, to talk to an adult.

It's easier to respect the differences of others when we respect our own differences. We give students space to express themselves and teach how to respond with curiosity instead of judgement.

The more we know about each other the easier it is to build community and empathy.

What can parents do?

• Talk with your children about their own cultural/ethnic heritage.

• Talk with your children about genetics, body features, skin/hair/eye color.

• Allow children to make observations about others and talk with them about the differences they notice.

• Talk with your children about your family traditions, beliefs and values.

• Talk with children about the beliefs, traditions and values of other cultures.

• Search for and read lots of books that reflect other cultures, traditions and values

NPR has a great podcast that I highly recommend. Parenting:Difficult Conversations:Talking Race with Young Children

Healthychildren.org also has a great article that I recommend. Using Books to Talk with Kids about Race and Racism

From PBS.org How to Use Children's Books to Talk About Race and Racism

Authors of diverse backgrounds such as different cultures, ethnicities, and disabilities can offer a different perspective on life and help widen our children's views on the world. Even if we disagree with the values and beliefs in a given story, it is our opportunity to have courageous conversations with our children. We can show respect to the beliefs and values of others while holding on to our own. The following books may get you started on this road.