Early Risers Podcast

How can we help our children develop a positive racial identity? What does "racial identity" mean for our children? It's about understanding different racial backgrounds, embracing their own identity, and recognizing the value of all identities around them. Dr. Sturdivant, director of Early Learning and Head Start, has dedicated her career to providing resources and strategies that empower young children to cultivate a positive racial identity. As a parent, coach, professor, and author, she knows firsthand the challenges that arise—and the solutions that can transform them. Check out this clip where Dr. Sturdivant shares her personal journey of helping her child navigate the complexities of self-love in a world that often says otherwise. #LoveTheSkinYoureIn #EarlyChildhoodEducation #BlackAuthors #PositiveRacialIdentity #EarlyRisersPodcast #RacialIdentityMatters

Congratulations to Dr. Ibram X. Kendi for his new role as the new director of the Howard University Institute for Advanced Study! Dr. Kendi is also an acclaimed historian and author of best-selling antiracism books, AND has also ventured into children's literature with his book "Magnolia Flower," inspired by Zora Neale Hurston’s story. He was also a guest on the Early Risers Podcast! Dr. Kendi shared his experiences as a parent and children's book author, emphasizing how these books can help instill love as a form of resistance in young readers. Check out his episode, How Children’s Books can be Tools for Resistance, here: https://lnkd.in/dYpdf5m7

How can being “colorblind” harm the cultural development of children? Join us as we chat with the insightful Dr. Debra Sullivan, who shares valuable insights on why acknowledging race is essential for effective learning and growth at home and in school. Our discussion guide will help you answer pressing questions, spark meaningful conversations, and provide practical tools to navigate these important discussions. Check out the discussion guide and tune in! https://lnkd.in/efMyF6tg #EarlyRisersPodcast #CulturalDevelopment #RaceConversations #DrDebraSullivan #Parenting #Education

Starting conversations about our cultural commonalities and differences creates empathy in children and helps them appreciate what makes us unique. Here are some family activities to help kids appreciate their own culture as well as others', from our friends at Learning for Justice: - Create an art piece that reflects who you are, inside and out. - Make a collage celebrating your interests and identities. - Create Venn diagrams to highlight similarities and differences. - Share stories behind your favorite family meals while exploring new cuisines together. - Write, draw, or create something that shares a part of your culture. You can do these activities with your kids, spending quality time and helping them embrace their identity while valuing others! https://lnkd.in/gAHzN2PJ

How should we talk to our kids about diversity and discrimination? It’s never too early to nurture a world that celebrates everyone's uniqueness! Here are some tips to get the conversation started: *Keep It Open & Ongoing: This isn’t just a one-time chat! Make discussions about diversity a regular part of your family talks. The more you engage, the easier it gets! *Age-Appropriate & Incremental: Tailor conversations to fit your child’s age. Start with simple ideas and let the discussion grow as they do, helping them understand these vital concepts over time. *Encourage Curiosity: Create a safe space for questions! Let your little ones know it's completely okay to be curious about differences. Answer their questions with warmth and openness—curiosity leads to understanding! *Lead by Example: Challenge your own biases and model inclusivity in your everyday actions. When you encounter discrimination, use it as a teachable moment for your kids. More resources are available at https://lnkd.in/enT-GVvg #EarlyRisersPodcast #InclusiveParenting #DiversityEducation #DiscussDiversity #TalkAboutDiscrimination #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ParentingTips #RaisingAwareness

Check out the Anti-Racism Resource Directory from our friends at Learning Heroes! This fantastic resource compiles helpful and free materials to aid families in discussions about race, racial justice, and anti-racism. With contributions from Essence, Parents, PBS KIDS, Common Sense Media, and more, you’ll find categorized resources tailored to different age groups. This list is designed to kickstart important conversations with your children and empower families to take action towards racial equality and equity in America. https://lnkd.in/gnigajPn #AntiRacism #LearningHeroes #EarlyRisersPodcast

Kids are natural observers, noticing the world’s uniqueness! Understanding differences is vital for their social identity and awareness. Research shows that a “color-blind” approach—in which differences are ignored—can lead to biases and misconceptions. Instead, we should encourage open conversations! How to Spark the Dialogue: * Ask open-ended questions to stimulate curiosity. * Share diverse stories through books and films that highlight diversity. * Model inclusivity in your actions. (Source: US Department of Health and Human Services) #DiversityMatters #InclusionMatters #EmbraceDifferences #EarlyRisersPodcast #earlychildhoodeducation

Do you have a backpack of responses for what to say when your child asks about race? In this episode of Early Risers, we dive into the parenting journey of Ayan Omar, a Somali American mother residing in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Ayan introduces a thoughtful and empowering method she employs with her daughters: the concept of a "backpack of responses." This strategy helps her children navigate complex questions regarding their race, religion, and culture—facilitating deeper understanding and self-assurance in their identities. Through Ayan's approach, she equips her daughters with the tools to engage with others meaningfully and authentically, ensuring they feel validated in their experiences and perspectives. Join us as we explore the profound impact of this method on their family dynamics and individual growth, highlighting the importance of fostering resilience and open dialogue about identity in a multicultural context. https://lnkd.in/grME5caq

Ever wonder, "When should I talk to my kids about race?" The answer? Now! Even toddlers notice differences. Early, open conversations about race and ethnicity are super important. Research (from the American Psychological Association) shows it boosts academic performance, builds racial pride, and more. Let's teach our kids about the beauty of diversity from the start. Learn how to have these important conversations with the Early Risers Podcast! Listen wherever you get your podcasts, or here: https://lnkd.in/gNu6BUu #EarlyRisersPodcast #RaceTalk #ParentingTips #EarlyChildhoodEducation #DiversityandInclusion

Let's ensure that every child sees themselves in the pages they read! When children see characters that look like them and share their experiences, it fosters a sense of belonging and pride in their heritage. In this clip, from season 2 of Early Risers, Minnesota’s Lieutenant Governor, Peggy Flanagan, reminds us that these stories not only enrich our children's lives but also empower them to embrace their identity and culture. Listen to the full episode here: https://bit.ly/3GFStlT #EarlyRisersPodcast #BooksMatter #RepresentationInLiterature #BirchbarkBooks #DiversityInBooks