How to Teach Children Not to Be Racist and Respect Differences from an Early Age

Illustration (Vika Glitter/Pexels)

JAKARTA - Children have a great sense of curiosity about everything that happens around them. This curiosity sometimes makes them often ask difficult questions of their parents. Among thousands of questions, there is one question that can be too complex for parents to think about the answer, namely about differences and racism.

The proliferation of news about cases of racism around the world, inevitably requires parents to raise children as individuals who see differences as 'gifts' in life instead of as threats.

For reference, UNICEF has compiled an easy guide in explaining racism to children and exemplifying inclusive behavior on differences. This guide is compiled according to the stages of child development, from preschool age to pre-adolescence.

Children <5 years

Children under 5 years old have a high curiosity. Most likely when seeing a friend or someone who looks different from him, he will point and ask about the difference in public.

As a parent, you should remain relaxed and open. If you ask your child to be quiet, he will get used to seeing the topic as a taboo. Explain to your child using simple language when explaining that he and his friends may look different, but they certainly have a lot in common as fellow human beings.

"Think of it as something to celebrate, "we are all human beings, but we are all unique. Great, right?"

Children 6-11 years old

When entering school age, children's knowledge development is expanding. If he asks the question, first ask where he heard or saw it.

You don't always have to have an answer to every question. Discussing can be one way to explain certain things to children, such as topics about stereotypes, treatment at school, or certain things related to their daily lives. Don't forget to give examples of manners when communicating with friends from different cultures.

12+ children

Discussing with teenagers will certainly be easier. The topic of discussion can also be more abstract, for example about the concept of justice, equality, or racism. To be more real, take reliable references and give examples from hot news. You can also explore historical themes.

Try to bring your child closer to the outside world through books, movies, music, and food from different cultures. Considering that teenagers generally know social media well and start exploring wider friendships, support them to get to know people from different cultures.

If he also participates in voicing racism issues on social media, give feedback on how to convey ideas well. Being vocal about important issues in the right way is a good thing.