In our rapidly evolving world, the importance of creating just and inclusive learning spaces cannot be overstated. Ensuring that every child feels a sense of belonging is paramount, and addressing issues of race and racism from an early age is crucial. Research has consistently demonstrated that biases can form in children at remarkably young ages, making it imperative to counteract these biases through the deliberate use of positive, affirming language and practices. In this article, we will explore the transformative power of employing positive, affirming words when engaging in anti-racism education with young children, alongside the innovative Hues of You framework.

1. Cultivate curiosity - spark wonder and personal growth
2. Connect with common humanity - recognise and embrace our shared humanity, find common ground
3. Celebrate differences - see and value differences in self and others, embrace uniqueness
4. Comprehend complex systems - identify and navigate systems around us, see big systems
5. Champion change through activism - foster activism, sustain momentum, build capacity to create change

The framework provides a structured and developmentally appropriate approach to fostering inclusivity and equity. When children are affirmed in their identity, understand the concept of justice, and are encouraged to see and appreciate differences, they are better equipped to challenge stereotypes, promote equity, and work towards a future free from racial prejudice. It is our collective responsibility to foster a society where every child knows that they are valued, seen, and loved, regardless of their race or background, and the Hues of You framework serves as a valuable guide in this journey.

Image from Hues of You - An Activity Book for Learning About the Skin You Are In 

Starting with Your Own Anti-Racism Journey 

Before we embark on the journey of instilling racial competence in young children, it is essential for educators, caregivers, and parents to reflect on their own practice and pedagogy. Racial literacy involves understanding the complex systems of race, acknowledging biases, and actively working to challenge and dismantle them. It begins with self-awareness and the recognition of one's own biases. 

To be effective in anti-racism education, adults must first confront their own biases and preconceptions. The Hues of You framework emphasises the importance of this self-awareness, encouraging educators and caregivers to reflect on how their beliefs and behaviours may unintentionally perpetuate racism. By doing so, we can model self-awareness and growth for children, demonstrating that addressing bias is a lifelong journey.

Image from Hues of You - An Activity Book for Learning About the Skin You Are In 

Strategies for Embedding Good Practice

Creating a 'just' learning space where all children know they belong requires embedding good practices into every educational setting. The Hues of You framework provides a structured approach that is developmentally appropriate and fosters curiosity, fun, play, and creativity.

One highly effective strategy is to leverage children's literature as a powerful tool for initiating conversations about race and racism. Books not only captivate children's attention but also provide relatable stories and model resistance against oppressive beliefs and practices. When thoughtfully selected, these books help children develop empathy, challenge stereotypes, and gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of others.

Another critical strategy is ensuring that inclusion goes beyond tokenism. Inclusion should encompass a comprehensive examination of the entire curriculum, ensuring that it reflects the diverse experiences and histories of all students. True inclusion means making everyone feel seen and valued on a regular basis, not just during specific cultural heritage months.

Image from Hues of You - An Activity Book for Learning About the Skin You Are In 

Supporting Parents/Caregivers on Their Journey

To create a truly inclusive and equitable society, it is vital to support parents/caregivers in their own anti-racism journey. Parents/caregivers play a significant role in shaping a child's understanding of the world, and they need resources and guidance to navigate conversations about race with their children. 

Educators and schools can support parents/caregivers by providing resources, workshops, and guidance on how to engage in these critical conversations at home. These resources align with the Hues of You approach, promoting developmentally appropriate vocabulary and concepts necessary for meaningful conversations about racial distinctions. When parents are equipped with the tools and knowledge, they can reinforce the messages of inclusion and equity at home, creating a more holistic learning environment for children.

The Power of Positive Language and Affirmation

Central to the anti-racism journey with young children is the use of positive, affirming language, a core component of the Hues of You framework. Children must be affirmed in their identity and value. When children are consistently affirmed, they develop a strong sense of self-worth and learn to appreciate the beauty of their own and others' differences.

Affirmation begins with recognising and embracing the shared humanity that connects all individuals. It is about celebrating differences while also comprehending the complex systems of privilege and oppression that exist in society. It means championing change through activism, fostering a sense of agency in children to challenge unfair practices and promote justice.

Justice and the Importance of Fairness 

Justice is a concept that is easily understood by young children. Justice, as defined by the framework, is about fairness and equity. When discussing justice with children, it is important to emphasise these concepts. 

Educators and caregivers must ask themselves, "Did we create something that was fair to everyone?" and “Are we removing barriers that keep some people from dreaming and expressing their aspirations?" Then pose these questions to children as you work together to cultivate spaces where children feel they belong. These questions help them understand the importance of creating a just society where everyone has equal opportunities.

Avoiding Colour-blindness

“Race Colour-blindness,” although well-intentioned, can be counterproductive in anti-racism education. This practice erases the histories and contexts of racialised groups, denying the impact of systemic racism. Instead, we should encourage an understanding of why people look the way they do and how systemic policies and beliefs have influenced these appearances.

Colour-blindness also stigmatises colour and texture, implying that there is something inherently wrong with non-European features. It is essential to promote an appreciation for diverse appearances and backgrounds while acknowledging the historical and systemic factors that have shaped them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the power of using positive, affirming words and practices, in conjunction with the Hues of You framework, when engaging in anti-racism education with young children is paramount. By starting with our own anti-racism journey, embedding good practices into every educational setting, and supporting each other on our journeys toward racial literacy and intercultural competency, we can create just learning spaces where all children know that they are valued, seen, and loved, regardless of their race or background.