Teaching Kids & Teens About Race

Written by DaVonne Evans

Many states have reported that since the 2020 elections, Boards of Education and superintendents are having serial conversations, i.e., shouting matches infused with threats, with parents who are against Critical Race Theory (CRT) being taught in school. And while most K-12 grade school districts never had CRT as part of their curriculum, the antics of adults who insist on erasing or rewriting history are drawing more attention to the subject. These white parents are showing just how deeply rooted anti-blackness is and how expansive the biases against dark skin is in America. 

CRT is based on the idea that racism is embedded in America’s history, the legal system, and the policies that affect everyday life. It acknowledges that slavery and segregation, although long ago outlawed, continue to impact Blacks unfairly. In addition, CRT desperately seeks to address and get rid of racism and oppression.

Yet knowing all this, scholars, philosophers, and even theologists have differing opinions about teaching it; however, they agree that kids need to learn about this challenging topic early. Knowing this, who better than parents to begin discussing this complex topic early with their children. 

In addition to being a complex topic, racism is hard for kids to understand, especially when buzz phrases like “we don’t teach our kids to see color,” exist. However, for Black families, storytelling and literature have always been great ways to teach while nurturing a positive sense of self. Therefore, a list of books to help start discussions in your home about race and racism are listed below.

1. A Kids Book About Systemic Racism by Jordan Thierry

Jordan Theirry’s book is written in easy to read language about racism and how it finds its way into every aspect of life, including schools, jobs, and even the grocery store. Theirry breaks down how systemic racism makes life much harder than necessary for people of color.

2. Woke! A Young Poet’s Call to Justice by Mahogany L. Browne with Elizabeth Acevedo and Olivia Gatwood

If your children have seen the protests either on television or live on the street, Woke! A Young Poet’s Call to Justice is perfect to continue the conversation about social justice and activism. The collection of poems will engage your child and help them think about what it means to work towards justice for all.

3. A Kids Book About Diversity by Charnaie Gordon

Understanding that diversity makes us special and this world beautiful is priceless. Charnaie Gordon’s words eloquently reinforce that and help kids embrace their differences and respect others.

4. Grandpa, Is Everything Black Bad? by Sandy Lynn Holman

Since we live in a world where endless connotations are subconsciously ingrained into everything, investing in the self-image and pride in culture are invaluable, especially for children. Holman’s book is based on a special relationship between generations that questions and then dispels the notion that everything black is bad.

5. Angel of Greenwood by Randi Pink

This young adult fictitious historical novel tells the story of young love during the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre through the eyes of 16 year old Angel and 17 year old Isaiah. Told in alternating points of view, the story explores the two youth as they fall in love despite their life’s challenges and differences of opinions.