The Parenting Dilemma, Creative Essay Example

Like a number of issues, race offers a major challenge to the society at large. Adults are often divided when discussing this topic amongst themselves, let alone when addressing the same with their children. Open dialogue regarding race are restricted in the general public; parents should however not neglect addressing the topic within the confines of their houses to their children. This accords parents an opportunity to talk to their children on the topic, an experience that they likely did not share with their own parents while they were growing up.

It has been argued that neglecting the topic altogether will help in ensuring that their children are not sensitive to differences in color. This is however not so as they are likely to learn on the same elsewhere as the society mostly attaches meaning to race. Parents should address the topic basing it on their own racial identity that of the immediate and extended family and the values held regarding race whether implied or expressed (Kindlon, 2001). It is required that the discussions pertaining to race are done at an early stage and continuously develop as the child grows.

What children understand

According to Elkind, (2001), children are not aware of the historical implications of racial differences and its effect to the society. However, children often notice differences in appearance and are likely to stare at people that do not look like them (Elkind, 2001). At this time in the child’s life, they often look to their parents to determine their reactions and opinions to inform their own. It is therefore paramount for parents to check how they address the topic as those actions are what your child will consider appropriate. This is one of the challenges that parent of color are likely to experience.

References

Elkind, D., (2001). The Hurried Child: Growing up too fast, too soon, 3rd Ed. MA: Perseus Publishing.

Kindlon, D., (2001). Too much of a Good Thing: Raising children of character in indulgent age. N Y: Hyperion.