Celebrating Differences: Antiracist Parenting Right From the Start

1. All children notice differences;
2. It’s not okay to use differences as an excuse to stereotype others;
3. Racism is learned;
4. Racial bias starts early, between ages two and four; and
5. Diversity makes a difference.

The author supports the idea that “talking to children about racism is part of our responsibility as parents” but acknowledges that this may not always be easy. She suggests reflecting on one’s own biases and re-thinking one’s views on race. This can sometimes be uncomfortable or even painful, so reaching out for support may be challenging but necessary. The article also provides some suggestions for useful next steps in the process of Celebrating Differences: Antiracist Parenting Right From the Start.

The ICC-Recommended Early Start Personnel Manual (ESPM) describes core knowledge and role-specific competencies needed for early intervention service provision, incorporating current research and evidence in the field of early intervention. To access the ESPM, CLICK HERE.

This resource is related to the following ESPM knowledge-level competencies:

• Core Knowledge (CK):
  • CK1: The dynamics of family systems including cultural, linguistic and socio-economic factors influencing family function and care for all children.
• Identification and Referral (IR):
  • IR4 (EIS): Knows resource options for services and supports (other than Early Start) in the county/area of residence.
• Evaluation and Assessment (EA):
  • EA5 (EIS): Understands the effect of social context, child’s state of health and well-being, primary language ability, and environment on assessment processes.
• Individualized Family Service Plan Development and Review (IFSP-DR):
  • IFSP-DR4 (EIS): Knows community agencies and resources such as primary health care, infant/family mental health, social services, and parent-parent support groups.
• Individualized Family Service Plan Development and Review (IFSP-i):
  • IFSP-i9 (EIS): Knows models and approaches to home visiting and in-home interaction strategies.
  • IFSP-i12 (EIS): Knows that cultural beliefs and practices of parents and professionals affect early intervention service delivery.