Parenting, Media, and Everything In Between

Common Sense Media Resources About Race and Racism

We've gathered together all our articles and lists of media recommendations to help parents, educators, and others spark important conversations. By Caroline Knorr

Topics: News and Media Literacy, Reading, We Recommend

Common Sense Media Resources About Race and Racism

Today's kids are growing up in a world where anyone can create anything they wish -- a YouTube video, a meme, a tweet. Unfortunately, some choose to use these tools to spread hate, misinformation, and racism. That's why it's so critical for parents to be intentional about the media kids are exposed to. Choose media that educates kids in essential human values such as love, understanding, kindness, and compassion. Take the opportunity to discuss how race is portrayed, how stereotypes are perpetuated, and how racial experiences differ. Use our conversation starters to get kids to think more deeply about these topics. Now, more than ever, our kids really need to learn these lessons.

Advice for parents on using media to discuss racism

Book recommendations

Movie recommendations

Other media

How to discuss breaking news/disturbing topics

Media use research

Connection and Control: Case Studies of Media Use Among Lower-Income Minority Youth and Parents

Mental health resources

Recursos en español

Updated

June 2, 2020

About Caroline Knorr

As Common Sense Media's parenting editor, Caroline helps parents make sense of what’s going on in their kids' media lives. From games to cell phones to movies and more, if you're wondering "what’s the right age for…?"... Read more