Was driving DDs(7 and 3) to school and nursery this morning when DD1 waved at her friend.
DD2: Do you know her?
DD1:Yes, she's my friend.
DD2: She can't be your friend, she's white!
DD1: I have both white and brown friends. I love them all
DD2: well, I don't like white people.
I was so shocked and sad at this statement, I asked her why she said that and she said well because Emma ( not real name) will not play with me.
I mentioned all the names of the white friends she plays with and asked if she likes them. She does. " so, you see that you like both brown and white people".
For context, we are African migrants. Both DH and I have lived in the UK for over 12 years. We initially came over as uni students and have lived here since. We have integrated nicely within our society and have a mixed friendship circle.
Neither of us hold racist views either privately or in public.
Why would my 3 year old say this?
My DH thinks I'm overthinking this as she's said it because a girl has been mean to her. I am absolutely ashamed that my child would say this.
I'm on my way home now and I think I should talk to her again about it. DH says she may have forgotten and I shouldn't bring it up again.
What would you say to her?