In recent weeks, thousands of people across the United States and around the world have taken to the streets to protest police brutality and the police’s murders of Black people. Women and men like Breonna Taylor and George Floyd have lost their lives because of senseless, racialized violence. To many children, experiencing this historic moment of protests, rightful outrage, and constant change can be overwhelming. They may have learned about the Civil Rights Movement in their textbooks, but living through major social justice events may be a little harder to process. With so many disparate opinions on our current events, children are receiving quite a few messages about what people are protesting for and why these past few weeks have been the breaking point for many people within and allies of Black communities. So how can we help our children understand these protests and the advocacy we’re seeing around the world?
Provide Historical Context
Unfortunately, the struggle for racial equity in the United States is long, painful, and constant. For some children, these protests may seem like isolated events. Why are people mad now? they may ask. Providing our children with a more comprehensive view of history will help them have a better understanding for how these injustices extend beyond our current moment.
Resources:
“The George Floyd protests – and riots – are a rebellion against an unjust system”:
https://amp.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/jun/04/george-floyd-protests-riots-rebellion
Consider Our Current Moment from a Child’s Point-of-View
Children and adults process and understand differently from one another. Finding resources that specifically have children in mind can be a helpful way to prepare your discussion with your child. Experts consider how children typically approach problems and how we can address their needs with mindfulness and compassion.
Resources:
Watch the entire CNN/Sesame Street racism town hall:
How to talk to kids about racism, explained by a psychologist:
https://www.vox.com/identities/2020/6/9/21283715/how-to-talk-kids-racism-race-protests
The Tailored Tutoring LLC Writing Team