Teach Love, Teach Respect, Teach Kindness
It is a difficult time that we are facing right now. We stand in solidarity with people of color and anyone affected by racism, violence, and hate. Everyone should feel that their life is valued and that it matters!
It is important to remember that the only way to end racial injustice and hate is to teach love, kindness, respect, and understanding. The next generation can bring a brighter future to this world if we teach them cultural understanding, kindness, and respect.
Sometimes we do not realize when we are making ignorant or offensive comments or statements. Mentioning racial tenancies or stereotypes, for example, is just one way that we can inadvertently teach racism. As parents we have to acknowledge that we did not get a guide book on how to raise the perfect kid or how to be the best mom or dad. So we have to continue to educate ourselves, and be open minded.
Don’t let the golden rule end in Kindergarten.
Continue to talk to your children about diversity and respecting different cultures. Continue to teach love and care for one another. When we are unfamiliar with things, we often feel fear. Fear can lead to unconscious bias, aggression, or even hate. There is no room for hate when you are compassionate and empathetic towards others.
I am keeping this blog short because there are a lot of issues at hand. I want to focus on the one that I feel will be most impactful for the future of our world. I am hopeful that other necessary changes are already in the works. This is one I have not seen enough focus on. As a therapist who has studied psychology, human rights, criminology, and human behavior, I feel that the lack of cultural understanding is what remains the root of negativity and concern. In my opinion this is the only way we can avoid marching this
march again in another 60 years!
Parent Magazine recently published an article I felt would be helpful to share. It breaks down how you can teach your children cultural understanding and anti-racism at different ages and developmental stages.
Anti-Racism for Kids: An Age-by-Age Guide to Fighting Hate
I recognize that this topic brings up a great deal of emotions for everyone. If you want to talk further about it, we are here for you. Do not feel that you are alone. We are here to help guide you on this topic and assist you in processing all of the emotions it raises.
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