How do you talk with young children about race and racism? When should you start?  What is age appropriate?  Following the death of George Floyd and subsequent protests, many parents and teachers are asking these questions.

Find suggestions in:

• 10 tips for teaching and talking to kids about race – EmbraceRace
• Becoming Upended: Teaching and Learning about Race and Racism with Young Children and Their Families – NAEYC
• How to Talk with Kids About Racism and Racial Violence – Common Sense Media
• Kids Learn About Race Younger Than You Think. Talk To Them Before That. – HuffPost Canada
• 10 tips for teaching and talking to kids about race – Zero to Three
• Talking to Kids About Racism, Early and Often – The New York Times

Children’s books can be a good conversation starter. Here are some lists of books with race and anti-racism themes:

• Common Sense Media Resources About Race and Racism – Common Sense Media
• Early Childhood: Learning about Racial Identity – Social Justice Books
• Stand Up! Racial Identity, Racism, and Resistance for Grades K-7 – This timely booklist from VPL librarians contains ebooks and audiobooks. Check your public library to see if they’re available.
• These Books Can Help You Explain Racism and Protest to Your Kids – The New York Times