LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — As protests continue across the country, many kids may feel scared or confused. A Las Vegas family therapist says don't be afraid to talk to your kids about the protests, even if it's a difficult conversation.
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Delores Carr says the first thing parents should do is find out where your child is starting from, and what their initial understanding is of race and other cultures looks like.
"As a parent, I know that can be really challenging, because maybe you dropped the ball somewhere," said Carr. "Maybe something was able to impact your child's view, and maybe you didn't catch it."
Here are some things you can do as a parent when talking to your kids about racism.
- Don't avoid talking about it. If a child doesn't have the conversation with you, they'll most likely find somebody else to have it with. Also, research shows that even very young children are aware of racial differences.
- Make an effort to represent racial diversity in the products you buy for your children. That can mean more diverse books or dolls. This can help normalize diversity for kids.
- Validate their feelings. Help them express those feelings by acting out stories with toys or by drawing a picture.
