A child's concept of race is quite different from that of an adult.
Young children perceive skin color as magical--even changeable--and
unlike adults, are incapable of understanding adult prejudices
surrounding race and racism. Just as children learn to walk and talk,
they likewise come to understand race in a series of predictable stages.
Based on Marguerite A. Wright's research and clinical experience, I'm
Chocolate, You're Vanilla teaches us that the color-blindness of early
childhood can, and must, be taken advantage of in order to guide the
positive development of a child's self-esteem.
Wright answers some fundamental questions about children and race
including:
- What do children know and understand about the color of their skin?
- When do children understand the concept of race?
- Are there warning signs that a child is being adversely affected by
racial prejudice?
- How can adults avoid instilling in children their own negative
perceptions and prejudices?
- What can parents do to prepare their children to overcome the racism
they are likely to encounter?
- How can schools lessen the impact of racism?
With wisdom and compassion, I'm Chocolate, You're Vanilla spells out
how to educate black and biracial children about race, while preserving
their innate resilience and optimism--the birthright of all children.
