Resources to Fight Racism

During this time, we will be sharing online resources for families and children, including the best sites to get information about how to talk to young children about race and racism. Please check back regularly for new content.

SC First Steps Values

At South Carolina First Steps, we know that to accomplish our mission, we must recognize and address the disparities caused by systemic inequities, including racism. That is why equity is among our core values and part of our commitment to our colleagues, our partners, and the children and families we serve. At this critical moment, we are leaning in to these principles and recommitting ourselves to racial equity and inclusion at every level of our organization.

Our 2020–2025 Strategic Plan focuses our attention on closing gaps through equity, ensuring a fair chance for every child. As we move forward, we will be listening, learning, and striving always to do better. We must ensure all people have the opportunity and resources to be successful and that all voices are solicited and heard. We know our children’s futures depend on it.

What Do Children Know about Race?

“Silence about race relations reinforces racism by letting children draw their own conclusions based on what they see. Teachers and families can play a powerful role in helping children of all ages develop positive attitudes about race and diversity and skills to promote a more just future — but only if we talk about it!”
Source: The Children’s Community School of West Philadelphia, 2018
Article (NPR, 2016): Bias Isn’t Just A Police Problem, It’s A Preschool Problem

Talking to Young Children about Race & Racism

Talking Race with Young Children (NPR, 2019)
Even babies notice differences like skin color, eye shape and hair texture. Here’s how to handle conversations about race, racism, diversity and inclusion, even with very young children. Read more …
Becoming Upended: Teaching and Learning about Race and Racism with Young Children and Their Families by Kristen Cole & Diandra Verwayne (NAEYC, 2018)
This article discusses how one Kindergarten teacher collaborated with parents to “grow together in their understandings of the role we all must play in talking with young children about race and racism.” Read more …
It’s never too early to start raising an anti-racist child. Here are a few critical ways white parents can model anti-racist behaviors for their young children. Read more … (Article: How to Model Anti-Racist Behaviors and Talk to Your Children about Race by Maia Niguel Hoskin)
Watch the entire CNN/Sesame Street racism town hall
Sesame Street’s Abby shares a personal story about how her friend was a victim of discrimination and how she stood up for him. Watch here …

Article: How to Talk to Kids about Race and Racism (June, 2019)

Article: Five Ways to Encourage and Celebrate Diversity with Early Learners (January, 2020)

Article: Moving ‘The Talk’ to ‘The Walk’ for Black Children

The Rising Voices Library, created with David C. Banks, provides students with high-interest, culturally relevant texts that give context to what they’re experiencing in the world around them. These materials build a rich classroom community, enabling deep discussions about social justice issues and identity development while giving students the tools to grow as leaders and thinkers. Read more here …