WEBVTT Kind: captions Language: en 00:00:00.340 --> 00:00:05.160 Here are five tips for parents on how to talk to kids about racism and violence in the media. 00:00:06.280 --> 00:00:09.040 No. 1: Check in with yourself first. 00:00:09.440 --> 00:00:11.940 Caregivers cope with all kinds of stress. 00:00:11.940 --> 00:00:14.240 You're stretched thin and in need of support, too. 00:00:14.240 --> 00:00:19.940 So before focusing on what to tell your kids, mentally prepare yourself for a hard conversation. 00:00:20.500 --> 00:00:22.700 No. 2: Create a safe space. 00:00:23.100 --> 00:00:26.880 Chatting without interruption or distraction is key to getting your message across. 00:00:27.380 --> 00:00:32.100 Find out what your kids know, what they're worried about, and watch for any signs of distress. 00:00:33.520 --> 00:00:36.240 No. 3: Start with small doses. 00:00:36.240 --> 00:00:40.720 The images and sounds of racialized violence in the news take a toll on our kids. 00:00:40.720 --> 00:00:46.040 Pick just one event, one short clip, or one social media post that resonates, and use 00:00:46.040 --> 00:00:47.960 that as a conversation starter. 00:00:48.340 --> 00:00:51.280 No. 4: Listen to your kids' reactions. 00:00:51.280 --> 00:00:53.680 Don't just talk at them; work with them. 00:00:53.680 --> 00:00:57.400 Listen deeply and validate their feelings or potential desire for action. 00:00:57.400 --> 00:00:59.820 Your kids may have something to teach you, too. 00:01:00.560 --> 00:01:03.520 And No. 5: Learn more together. 00:01:03.520 --> 00:01:05.460 Hate often stems from ignorance. 00:01:05.460 --> 00:01:11.800 Consider following activists on Instagram and Twitter who will inform, challenge, and educate your family. 00:01:11.800 --> 00:01:15.859 Media designed for your kids' ages can help them learn about other people's struggles 00:01:15.860 --> 00:01:17.360 in terms they can relate to. 00:01:17.960 --> 00:01:23.060 For top picks and advice to fit your family, become a member at commonsensemedia.org.