The Awesome Kids Guide to Race
What’s inside...
The Awesome Kids Guide to Race is a beautifully illustrated picture book that addresses the topics of race, racism, and racial justice in the United States of America. It provides a comprehensive guide for parents, teachers, homeschoolers, and curious kids of all ages, exploring what race is, what racism is, and what racial justice entails. The book also encourages kids to take action to ensure that everyone is treated fairly.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-12
Length
43 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways that people are different from each other, and why do you think it's important to understand and respect these differences?
Can you think of a time when someone treated another person unfairly because of their race? How did it make you feel, and what would you have done in that situation?
If you could create a world where everyone is treated equally, no matter their race, what would it look like?
How can learning about different races and cultures make us better friends or classmates?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings openly, without fear of judgement. Show empathy and understanding as they share.
Use examples from the book to highlight key moments or lessons, and relate them to real-life situations your child might encounter.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to stimulate deeper thinking and connection to the material.
Praise your child for their ideas and insights, reinforcing the importance of discussing and understanding complex topics like race.
Create a safe and inclusive environment during the discussion, ensuring all voices are heard and considered.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Diversity
Explanation: The book introduces the concept of race through child-friendly language and examples, explaining how people have different physical features but should all be treated equally.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by recognizing and appreciating the differences in appearance among their peers, fostering an inclusive attitude from a young age.
Example Lesson: Importance of Inclusivity
Explanation: Shayla Reese Griffin emphasizes the significance of including people of all races in activities and decision-making processes, reinforcing the idea through the protagonist's actions.
Real-World Application: Kids can embrace this lesson by ensuring everyone in their school or playground feels included, regardless of their racial background.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards Others
Explanation: Through various scenarios within the book, readers learn to put themselves in others' shoes, particularly those who might feel left out or different because of their race.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be considerate and understanding in real-world situations, helping them build emotionally supportive relationships with diverse groups.
Example Lesson: Standing against Racism
Explanation: The protagonist confronts instances of racial prejudice, teaching readers the importance of standing up against unfair treatment based on race.
Real-World Application: Children learn to recognize and peacefully oppose racist remarks or actions, becoming proactive advocates for equality in their communities.
Example Lesson: Celebrating Cultural Differences
Explanation: The story highlights the beauty of various cultural traditions and histories associated with different races, encouraging curiosity and respect.
Real-World Application: Kids can show interest in learning about and participating in cultural activities not their own, thereby broadening their worldview and acceptance.