Encouraging Positive Racial Identity in Young Children

A lot of literature on racism in young children focuses on white children learning to not be racist, rather than sharing strategies on how Black parents and caregivers can instill positive racial identity in their children. Racially socializing young Black children has a profound impact on their friendships, education, and future outcomes (Embrace Race). According to the American Psychological Association, “Research shows that talking to children about race and engaging in related activities when children are young improves academic performance, racial pride, and other outcomes. It is never too early to engage in direct and indirect communication about race and ethnicity.”

Resources for Developing Positive Racial Identity

• Read children’s books on racial identity development from Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.
• Utilize ideas from PBS for activities that help children learn about and develop racial identity.
• View resources from RESilience for uplifting youth through healthy communication about race.
• Read the story of one Pittsburgh mother as she instilled positive racial identity in her child, via Kidsburgh.
• View a guide for activities from the American Psychological Association to engage children at each age in learning about race and culture.
• Encourage educators who interact with your child to learn about how they can support your child’s identity within the classroom.

About the P.R.I.D.E Program

Through a blend of interactive professional development for educators, classes with parents, dynamic arts festivals, and community engagement, the Positive Racial Identity Development in Early Education (P.R.I.D.E.) program fosters positive racial identity in Black children, aged 3 to 8, in the city of Pittsburgh. The P.R.I.D.E. website features a number of resources for parents of young children, including a podcast and parent support group.