How kids learn about race

This guide describes general patterns in children’s racial development from infancy to early adolescence, based on research. Learn about racial development milestones at different ages, and explore activities and goals for each age. 

Among caregivers who say they do talk to kids about race, a subset — mostly but not only White parents — are actually using egalitarian ("color-blind") language that doesn't engage race at all. We get practical advice from Professor Brigitte Vittrup about how to shift the conversation. 

Watch Part 2 of this 2-part webinar series inviting caregivers, educators, and advocates into deeper learning, witnessing, and grounded practice in response to harmful immigration policies. 

A collection of resources designed specifically for parents, educators, and other caregivers who play meaningful roles in the lives of young Asian American children.

Sometimes, we may feel like being “different” than others — for the way we look, for eating different foods, or for speaking different languages — is a bad thing. Whenever being “different” makes us feel unhappy, thinking about the special details of our cultures and heritages can help us remember how our cultures actually make us unique and important.

Use this resource as a guide to help prompt your own reflection. 

Explore the differences between "color-blind" and color-brave views of race, racism, and raising kids. 

Navigating conversations about race with young children can feel complex. We've created a simple framework to help you break down these important topics into concepts kids can understand. 

Like other parts of children’s development, learning about race begins very early — even before they’re walking and talking — and continues throughout childhood.