Equity & Inclusion
A Message From Our Executive Director, Lisa Van Deman
The recent brutal and senseless murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery were horrifying and heartbreaking. The deep, systemic wounds of racism and injustice in our country have again resulted in violence and fear on a massive scale. We stand in solidarity with Black and Brown communities in the fight against racism and inequity. We must work together to defend human dignity and actively promote kindness, equity, and inclusion in our work and in our lives.
The Kidzu staff has compiled valuable resources to help families talk about racial equity and inclusion at home! We will continually update these resources, so check back regularly.
As children develop their own identities, they become more conscious of differences among others. Purposeful and engaging activities help children learn how to recognize and talk about these differences openly and without judgement.
PBS Kids – Play Pretend: How to Include Others
Teaching Young Children About Diversity Through Play
19 Children’s Books to Read in Honor of Hispanic Heritage Month
Social Justice Books: 60 Booklists of Multicultural and Social Justice Books for Kids, Young Adults, and Educators
31 Children’s Books to Support Conversations on Race, Racism, and Resistance
21 Children’s Books Every Black Kid Should Read
Caregivers are responsible for raising a new generation that embodies kindness, equity, and inclusion. These resources prepare adults to have uncomfortable, but necessary, conversations with children about race and racism, while also providing tools to grow alongside them.
“Raising Race Conscious Children”: Resources for Talking to Children About Race with Young Children
NPR Podcast: Talking Race with Young Children (20 minutes)
Liberation Station, Black-owned bookstore in Durham, NC
Becoming a Parent in the Age of Black Lives Matter
Resources to Support Children’s Emotional Well-Being Amid Anti-Black Racism, Racial Violence, and Trauma
How to Talk to Kids about Race: An Age by Age Guide
Guide for Selecting Anti-Bias Children’s Books
EmbraceRace.org
Educators have the critical role of not only teaching children about racial diversity, inclusivity, and how to endorse equity, but also creating curriculums and learning objectives that systemically affirm and promote diversity. Learning how to have constructive and respectful conversations requires self-reflection and educating oneself about best practices. Here are some resources that can help!
Teaching Tolerance: A List of Resources for Educators to Help Facilitate Conversations in the Classroom
Project READY: Free, Online Professional Development Modules for School Administrators
“Let’s Talk! Facilitating Critical Conversations with Students”
Sesame Workshop: Identity Matters Study
National Museum of African American History and Culture: Talking About Race with Students
Black Lives Matter at School
Resources for Education and Inclusivity in the Outdoor Industry
**These links are being provided for informational purposes, and do not constitute an endorsement by Kidzu Children’s Museum of any products, services, or opinions therein**
On behalf of the entire Kidzu team, we are listening. If you would like to give us feedback, tell us about the challenges you’ve faced as a parent/caregiver during these times, or simply share additional resources that could be helpful to other families, reach out to us by clicking here and sending us a direct message.