Racism is a part of life. But, are we born into it or is it taught?  Some research states that young children are not born into being judgmental about other children or people. They are gradually taught – or not taught.  So where and when does it begin?

Forming opinions on racism

Racism or an awareness of physical bias doesn’t totally develop until the teen-age years. However, resent research from Harvard University suggests that very young children exposed to racism lean toward its acceptance as young as the age of 3. In fact, research indicates that 3 and 4 year olds show the same level of bias as adults.

Children, at an early age, notice differences in others. They notice differences in height, eye color and skin color. Young children notice if hair is short, long, curly, or straight. However, the way children interpret what they observe is affected by many variables.  These variables include what they see and hear at home, at school and while playing with other children.  They also form impressions from media.

Many times, people’s statements are unintentional.  We need to rethink our own biases and prejudices. Teachers and parents must be careful not to place labels on others.  We need to prevent racism by encouraging children to see people as people, and not as groups.

Encountering Racism

Educators and parents must counter the bias children see and hear on media or with friends and family. When a child comments on something or someone looking ‘funny’.   A proper response would be to say ‘It is different…’

When we immediately take time to discuss a comment or a question a child has, we create a risk free climate for sharing concerns. By creating a risk free climate children are able to

•  clarify misconceptions,

•  become more comfortable with the differences they see,

•  have verbal communication with the vocabulary to speak positively about themselves and other’s differences.

differences

Address Issues

The important thing to remember is not be be embarrassed by what is being asked. Too often educators and parents respond by telling a child that their statement or question isn’t nice.  Ignorance doesn’t produce a bias-free child.  Racism comes from both nature and nurture.  When educators and parents refuse to talk about it, racism will continue to grow.

Blog Discipline/Punishment
Blog Racism

 

Adams Educate Logo
Share:
LinkedIn
Facebook
Reddit
Pinterest
Email
Print
Facebook

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


The reCAPTCHA verification period has expired. Please reload the page.

Related Posts:

Science Education In School

Science education is crucial in K-12 education. In the early grades, science introduces students to many skills. It gives them benefits that last a lifetime.

Structured or Unstructured Recess

Structured recess teaches children to play safely in accordance with the Whole Child Model. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, students should engage in

Vaccines for School Students

Vaccines are essential for students and teachers to have when they go to school. In the classroom, lunch room, gymnasium, and hallways, it is easy