Teaching racism in primary school

[Eslteacher06]

So its Black History Month and my daughters teacher is very passionate about it.

A couple of the parents have said it's really sad that we have to teach about racism to young children because she never noticed the colour of skin before.

I have my own thoughts, but wondered what others thought? Is it reasonable to teach about racism at a young age or is it ruining innocence?

I think we should teach children that everyone should be treated the same, I do not think we should be highlighting racism but the importance of valuing and respecting everyone, this is something that is all year round not just one month

Not all Black History is about racism. Its also about achievements, world geography, culture, and, er, history.

Of course, if kids are old enough to be victims of racism and prejudice (and unfortunately they are), others are old enough to be taught about it.

Saying one doesn’t see color and therefore talking about racism isn’t necessary is offensive. People do see color and unfortunately many still feel strongly about it to either be verbally rude, physically abusive or potentially more likely to kill you for it. Why should we pretend it doesn’t exist? it does exist and the least that can be done is to talk about it and denounce it for what it is.

My DC primary school has done many topics (historical and current) that cover racism and how people from different nations are perceived in society. They’ve covered areas of Imperialism, American Civil War, books on refugees etc. Great curriculum.

Its a very internationally diverse school. Best thing when they talk to me about it at home is the incredulousness as they can’t believe those things happened. Definitely an eye opener that racism is learned behaviour, little kids are very accepting of each other I find.

It's part of the National curriculum.