Hi Everyone. Over the last week I have done a lot of thinking on how I can be a valuable resource to support the black community. The first thing that came to mind was my daughter. I take the responsibility of raising Olivia to be a kind, loving person to everyone very strongly. The biggest compliment someone can give me is telling me how sweet and kind Olivia is. As parents we MUST get this right. Hate is taught and let me tell you it is a lot harder to hate someone than to love someone. So I wanted to share some books with you today that have amazing courageous black characters in them and ways we talk to Olivia about race.
Little Melba and Her Big Trombone
Have you Thanked an Inventor Today
We’re Different, We’re the Same
How Do you Talk to Olivia about Race?
I have also been asked how I talk to Olivia about race. First and foremost it is important to lead by example. Over the last week, I have really reflected on how I can be a better role model for Olivia. As a parent you can no longer just speak your beliefs, you have to be actionable with them. It starts with having tough conversations with your child, which can be uncomfortable, but it is important for your child to feel comfortable talking about it. I teach Olivia the value of difference, but that we are all still the same. We are planning to be more actionable with ways to bring diversity in our lives. By doing this, it will naturally show your child the importance of inclusiveness. Actions speak louder than words.
I saw this next quote recently and it resonated with me on this subject.
“Developing empathy, compassion, and a sense of justice at an early age helps kids grow into adults who want to help make the world a better place.”
This world CAN bet a better place and MUST be a better place for our children. I will be honest, it terrifies me to see the state this world is in right now. However, I think many more eyes are open and I do have hope we will all start to heal together.
So important to educate kids!
Mireia from TGL
https://thegoldlipstick.com/