Becoming Color-Conscious: Preparation to Address Young Children’s Curiosity about Race

Abstract

When young children notice and comment about physical appearance differences often associated with race, adults may experience discomfort and uncertainty about how to respond. As a result, many adults try to avoid or terminate such discussion, leaving children with unanswered questions and misunderstandings. To prepare educators to be supportive of the development of children’s positive racial identity and racial awareness, it is important for educators to examine their own attitudes, biases, and knowledge about race and racism. This chapter summarizes research on children’s racial identity and awareness, describes critical approaches to anti-racist education, and provides resources and strategies through which professionals can better understand themselves and the young children they serve.

Citation

Kemple, K.M., Harris, M.G. and Lee, I.R. (2015), "Becoming Color-Conscious: Preparation to Address Young Children’s Curiosity about Race", Discussions on Sensitive Issues (Advances in Early Education and Day Care, Vol. 19), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 1-27. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0270-402120150000019002