Comments on: “Why Are Bad Guys Bad?”

By: Some Stuff To Read | Be A Good Dad

Some Stuff To Read | Be A Good Dad — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 16:52:14 +0000

[...] Here is an interesting post about badness and teaching kids what that really means. [...]

By: Stu Mark

Stu Mark — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 17:04:24 +0000

Debbie,

Really good idea on that post topic – I never thought of it, because it’s not an issue in our house – we have such diversity, and we live in such a diverse neighborhood that it’s just normal. But that’s what the post will focus on. Good call.

By: Debbie

Debbie — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 16:36:28 +0000

AmyL–I like your approach. We will try it. Thank you.

By: Debbie

Debbie — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 16:36:02 +0000

Stu–I’m glad your kids and their classmates have had the issue addressed. Has it helped any with your kids’ understanding of who they are? And, if your whole family is not Mexican, might you write a piece sometime on what it’s like to be in a family where there’s more than one culture (or color or language, if applicable)?

By: AmyL

AmyL — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 13:30:37 +0000

I would lay the groundwork on that one by teaching them the meaning of the word stereotype. It’s fairly easy to teach that in little doses here and there, introducing the word and using it casually when you are able in conversation (with them or around them). Anytime you see an example of one, call the kids’ attention to that. Even at their age, they’re capable of learning the word and a rudimentary meaning for it, which you flesh out over time with use. Then when the dreaded question arrives….and it will….you’ve got a foundation upon which to build your answer. Younger kids like simpler answers anyways, so if they understand the word you can probably use it in a very brief explanation and throw in historical references and analysis when they’re older.

By: Stu Mark

Stu Mark — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 13:01:16 +0000

First, I think it’s great that you separate the person from the deed – a wonderful lesson for kids (and adults) – Second, this brings up the question of dealing with the institutional racism that appears in the media – Why are so many Bad Guys African-Americans or Mexican-Americans? I was so glad that school addressed that one before I did, especially as my kids are Mexican.