July 21, 1999
FAMILY MATTERS: Help your
children overcome prejudice
___We recently encountered statements of prejudice from our children. This is not what we have taught them. How do we address this problem?
___As children grow older, they become more aware of what is going on around them. They begin to hear and see expressions and attitudes that might be different from w
hat they have been taught. Many outside factors affect children's lives. Children observe how others are treated not only by other children but also by adults.
Kay Towers
Program Coordinator
LifeWay Fellowship, Killeen
___Prejudice is wrong, but listening to their point of reference will help you discuss your concerns. Communication is the best key to understanding and addressing the problem.
___Talk with your children. Let them know you are concerned about what you have observed. Make it clear this conflicts with your beliefs and values as a family. Depending on the age of your children, discuss the word "prejudice." Remember, when we talk with children, it must be on their level of understanding if we are going to accomplish anything.
___Ask how they would feel if someone said something ugly about them or made fun of their family. Explain that when we do things that hurt the feelings of others, it makes Jesus sad. He taught us to "love one another" (John 13:34). Remind them God created all people and loves us all. We always should try to do what is good for each other and for all people (1 Thessalonians 5:15).
___Ask your children why they have started doing things that could hurt another person.
___Let your children know this is not acceptable to you and you want to help them. Encourage them to look for the good things in others. Read with them Genesis 1:27, which declares we are created in the image of God. While we were created uniquely different, we are alike in many ways. Find the positive instead of what we perceive to be the negative.
___You might invite the children who are targets of prejudice to your home. Allow your children to see you interact with them.
___If you read the Bible and pray together, consider using Bible stories that show how to treat others. Some examples might be the Good Samaritan, Joseph and his brothers, the woman at the well and the little boy who shared his lunch. Pray as a family for one another and for God's help to treat others like we want to be treated. Remember the Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12).
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