Talking about race and racism with children can feel overwhelming but is an important part of parenting and essential to teaching kids about tolerance and racial equity along with creating a social culture where all people can thrive.

 

For parents, having this difficult and sensitive conversation with children can stir up many questions: Why and how should I discuss race with my kids? What’s the right age I should start talking to my kids about race? Shouldn’t we just teach children that all people are equal and the color of your skin doesn’t matter? All of these questions are valid and there’s no simple or easy answer to any of them. What is known is that you should start NOW and continue conversations about race, inequality, and justice for all OFTEN. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, “children as young as 6 months can notice race-based differences, and they can internalize racial bias by the age of 2”. It’s our job as parents and caregivers to teach children, even from a young age, to respect and value our differences, as well as the similarities that all people share. 

 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed about where to start, books can help spark conversations about race and tolerance, along with model what it means to resist oppression. Books are a simple way to open children’s eyes to the unique stories and journeys of others. Picture books can also help children understand and relate to people of different races, ethnicities, and backgrounds. 

 

We’ve gathered a collection of diverse board books, picture books, and young adult novels that introduce race and inequality to children of all ages. And because parents have an obligation to learn WITH children about these critical and complex issues, we’ve included some helpful parenting resources so that we can all continue to listen, learn, and grow. 

 

INFANT + TODDLER BOOKS

 

PRESCHOOL BOOKS

 

ELEMENTARY AGE BOOKS

 

PRE-TEEN + TEENAGER BOOKS

 


BOOKS + RESOURCES FOR PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS

 

NON-FICTION ADULT BOOKS

 

PARENTING WEBSITES

 

 

Actions speak louder than words: be sure to shop, support, and advocate for local Detroit black-owned businesses

 

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ABOUT ASHLEY HUBBARD-PORTER

Ashley Porter is a Chicago native who now calls Birmingham home. Ashley and her husband Mike and son Jake love attending local festivals, exploring Detroit’s diverse food scene, and venturing outside of Metro Detroit to enjoy the natural beauty of Michigan. With a background in Early Childhood Education, Ashley loves connecting with and supporting families in her community, which is why she is so excited to be a part of LittleGuide Detroit.