How Can Mother's Help Their Children Avoid Being Biased?

    

    With being a mother comes a lot of responsibilities. Raising our children to be anti-racist humans is a task itself. Teaching your child to avoid discrimination towards others is major necessity in today's society.  Proquest states that "studies have found children can show signs of racial bias at an early age." This gives all the reason for mothers and caregivers to start showing the positives of racial equality as early as possible with children. Parents who teach their children to steer clear of discrimination will raise unbiased children who will be more accepting humans in society. 

                                This image is from NBCnews is parents showing their children to an opposing race. 

       Where to begin?

    Mothers should start by not being timid of starting the conversation of racism with their children. Making the topics of diversity and equality are important conversations for a first step. UNICEF says, "Parents are children's introduction to the world. What they see you do is as important as what they hear you say." Kids as young as five begin to take notice the distinctions between others around them. Children at this age have a blank canvas of knowledge, making their first lessons the rememberable ones. 

    The Next Step.    

    Teaching children to celebrate differences between races will help them grow up with a more open mind towards others in their childhood. A easy way to educate your child on inclusion and acceptance is exposing them to media. Proquest suggests, "Look for books with diverse main characters who have different races, ethnicities, backgrounds, and abilities, and reflect a number of family structures." It is important for children to understand the concept that everyone has differences and similarities, and both are okay. Allow your child to have curiosity about other races and talk openly to them about any questions. 

                                 This image is from Va. Infant & Toddler Specialist Network showing parents 

                                                                         celebrating diversity with activities.

      What if?

   

    Although educating children on the negativity of racism may seem like common sense; some parents may be afraid to expose their child to such sensitive topics. A parent could assume teaching their children about racism would allow them to grow into a racist. However, that is not the truth, Proquest informs that "Children have the benefit of approaching these topics with a fresh perspective and a strong sense of what's fair and unfair - skills that will help them build a better future for everyone." By avoiding the topics of discrimination and equality as a parent, you will only harm your child and their adulthood. 

    Going Forward 

    

    Parents can take the steps in the right direction to help their children avoid being racist. No body in this world deserves to deal with the negative effects of racism. Parents can be the first move to helping their children end racism. Families who properly educate their kids about discrimination can raise unbiased families. These children who are prepared to accept other races will grow into future beneficial humans for society. There is no harm in teaching your children about inclusion. Instead, you are helping your children by making them aware of the cause and effects of racism.