Be Kind, Be safe, Be respectful, Be responsible, Be resilient, Be ready

Dear Parents and carers,

At Our Lady Star of the Sea we pride our selves on our inclusiveness, we believe that we were all made in the image and likeness of God and therefore we are all have individual talents and gifts no matter the colour of our skin or our body shape. Racism is one thing we need to help children understand.

Engaging children in open, honest conversations about race and racism is essential. As trusted educators, caregivers, and parents, we can take several steps to foster understanding and promote anti-racist attitudes:

Increase Your Own Knowledge: We should all should learn more about race and racism by reading books, talking to experts, and watching documentaries. This knowledge helps us address racial inequity and systemic racism within our communities. Explain that people come from diverse backgrounds, cultures and ethnicities and that these differences should be celebrated rather than judged.
Acknowledge Children’s Observations: Children as young as two can notice racial differences. When they ask questions or make observations, acknowledge their curiosity. Respond with phrases like, “Let’s talk more about it when we can sit down together” or “We can learn together” if you don’t have all the answers immediately.
Be aware of your own biases and actively work to confront them, children learn by observing their parents and care givers.
Model kindness, empathy and respect when interacting with people from different racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
Keep Conversations Going: Don’t limit discussions about race to specific moments. Encourage ongoing conversations, letting children know it’s okay to ask questions and explore these topics. Talk openly with your children about race and acknowledge that racial differences exist. Encourage them to ask questions and express their thoughts.
Encourage children to question stereotypes they encounter. Discuss how stereotypes can be harmful and perpetrate bias.

Remember, addressing racism is an ongoing process, and starting these conversations early helps shape socially conscious and conscientious individuals.

Cathy

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