Let's Talk About Race

With so much going on in our world right now, it can be difficult to find the best way to explain these events to our children. I will be the first to admit that I still have a lot to learn. I have been sitting back and watching, reading, listening, and reflecting on all recent and not-so-recent events. I've been in full "education mode" here. 

In the only way I know how, I wanted to create some content that parents can use with their children at home. Feel free to download and use any or all parts of this freebie pack. You will need some craft supplies, a computer with internet access, and an invitation for open dialogue with your family. 

I was inspired by a read aloud shared by The Tutu Teacher on YouTube. You can find (and will need) her video which can be found HERE or below. 

I came up with a few activities for young children that could be done with the help of an adult. I also included helpful links and additional resources for kids and parents to navigate this sensitive topic. 

Activity #1 is a must if you choose to do activities #2 or #3.  The Tutu Teacher does a great job of explaining racism and race to young children. She challenges kids to "take off their skin" and get to know someone without judging them based on the color of their skin. 

Activity #2 - Have children decorate their "person" to represent themselves. Attach the skeleton page to the back of their artwork by using tape or staples. Reiterate that without our skin, we would look exactly the same on the inside. Take the papers over to a window and hold up to the light to reveal the skeleton underneath their self-portraits. This is a good time to also talk about how what is inside is the most important when learning about someone's story because the color of their skin and their appearance is only one small part of that. 

Activity #3 - In the read aloud, the story talks about how everyone has a story...elements of their lives that make them who they are. This activity challenges your child to really think about the things that make up their story. I included some questions that may help get the ball rolling, but encourage them to really dig deeply and think about who they are as a person. I also took this opportunity to discuss how their are parts of our stories that make us unique, but also that can connect us with others. The color of our skin doesn't mean that we can't relate or have things in common with others that look different than us. 

Activity #4 - I included some questions and statements to help get the conversations started with your family. There are plenty others online if you choose to look for more. 

Ready to get started???????

Just visit my store and download everything you need. Ready to print and use. 

I just started with my little guy and here is a sample of activity #3 (My Story). 

Good luck and let me know how it goes!

CLICK THE PURPLE LINK BELOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GET IT HERE

Love, 

Mary