Parents
This page is geared towards providing you with resources and strategies that you can use to bring up these tough topics with your kids. Make time today to discuss these topics!
Literature
We all have a common goal which is to raise children who are kind, caring and empathetic when it comes to race. First we will cover how to critically analyse available literature and media when considering which anti-racist media to present to your kids.
Reading Tips
1
Look for literature written by BIPOC authors about BIPOC communities. The point of this is not to exclude white voices, but to amplify the voices of BIPOC authors and to bring awareness to the perspective that you are reading.
2
Analyze new literature and media through the lens of a BIPOC individual who was looking to educate their own children. Try to find resources which provide firsthand accounts and stories of BIPOC people and their experiences.
3
Be aware of older or "classic" books which may be reinforcing negative stereotypes. Some of these classics may have visual or written elements which allude to racist connotations. Visit Social Justice Books for a guide on learning to identify stereotypes and other embedded cultural terms.
4
Take a look at books that have been awarded with honours such as the Coretta Scott King or the Belpre Medal.
Good Reads for Young Children (3 and under)
Here you will find a list of picture books and recorded readings that are suitable for young kiddos who are not able to read on their own yet.
The Skin You Live In by Michael Tyler. Illustrated by David Lee Csicsko
With the ease and simplicity of a nursery rhyme, this lively story delivers an important message of social acceptance.
Everybody's Welcome by Patricia Hegarty, Illustrated by Greg Abbott
"Wouldn't it be great if you could build a home that opened its doors to everyone - tall or short, fat or thin, rich or poor... Well, perhaps if everybody pitches in to help, one little mouse can achieve that dream." - Otherplace Brighton
Everybody's Welcome - A Child's Review & Reflection
The Empty Pot by Demi
"This book tells the story of the Empty Pot, a traditional Chinese folk tale. In it, the hero of the story learns that it is better to be honest than to cheat, and that honesty will bring real rewards."
When We Were Alone by David A. Robertson, Illustrated by Julie Flett
When a young girl helps tend to her grandmother’s garden, she begins to notice things about her grandmother that make her curious. Why does her grandmother have long braided hair and wear beautifully coloured clothing? Why does she speak another language and spend so much time with her family? As she asks her grandmother about these things, she is told about life in a residential school a long time ago, where everything was taken away. When We Were Alone is a story about a difficult time in history and, ultimately, a story of empowerment and strength.
Other Resources
Check out this section for awesome resources to expand your Children's book collection at home!
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Diverse Book Finder - Identify and Explore Multicultural Picture Books
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Julian Inserro Blog - 70+ BIPOC Children's Books to Add to Your Children's Library
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Tinkergarten - 24 Books with Black Protagonists
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Strong Nations - Canadian Indigenous Resource List
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CBC Canada - 10 Beautiful Indigenous Children's Books
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Huffington Post - 17 Stories To Teach Kids About Indigenous Heritage
Activities to Explore Anti-Racism
Read A Story
Choose a book that we listed above and read it with an adult or older sibling! Visit your local library or bookstore for these good reads!
Read about the history of Africville, Residential Schools, and the Chinese Head tax. Ask yourselves questions whether these situations were fair and how it made people feel. Questions like, "Was this fair? How did it make people feel? Did it hurt people? How do we make sure this doesn't happen again?"
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Create Anti-Racist Artwork
First read some of the suggested books or viewing the artwork by BIPOC artists. Then use your creativity to draw or create something that depicts how you would make the world a more fair and better place for everyone, or the message you want to send to those who are hurting. You could even create something that describes what BIPOC means to you!
Having Conversations About Race & Racism
Talking to Children Authentically about Race and Racism
PBS KIDS for Parents hosted this important conversation — ​featuring fellow parents, educators and child development and trauma experts — ​about how you can talk with young children about racial injustice and violence against Black people. Explore questions such as: How can parents of Black children continue to instill confidence and pride in young kids while also explaining the racial inequity and barriers that continue today? And, how can parents of non-Black children help young kids understand their role in confronting anti-Black racism? Hear questions from fellow parents and learn tips and resources you can use to continue to have these meaningful conversations now and into the future.