Experts say conversations with kids about racism are necessary

Experts say conversations with kids about racism are necessary

Continue around the world, experts say parents are searching for ways to explain what's happening to their kids.

But kezi 9 news reporter evita garza explains why it's important for parents to take of their mental health...before having that conversation.

Trt: 1:45 00:00 take lower there no easy way to explain protest?

Or?racism to your kids&.

But experts tell me the last thing you want to do is keep the truth from them.

Elizabeth phoner:?you know, it hard to have a conversation about race with your children.

But we need to do it with grace and understand their developmental age?

Dallas based pediatrician elizabeth thomas tells me it impossible to keep kids away from what happening& because of the technology theye using and their social environments.

But she says having that conversation young is important&so they can develop an understanding before they learn it from somewhere else.

It important to do it in a family environment because that where you have a trusted relationship.

They can be open with their questions and feelings.

00:43 evita: experts say children can easily sense the emotions and feelings their parents have.

Because of this, they say parents should make sure they're taking care of their mental health too, before speaking with their kids about these tough topics?

Leigh richardson, a dallas based behavioral specialist says it okay for parents to have their own feelings and opinions about these topics.

But, she says parents should also lead by example -- and make sure you're in a healthy frame of mind first.

Leigh phoner:?you need to think about what you want to say.

You don want your overall negativity to override the conversation?

In a time of uncertainity, richardson tells me it crucial to have these conversations with your kids&no matter how hard it can be.?let them know its ok to be afraid.

Its ok not to know what to think or how to think it?

And, theyl know their parents are there to help them sort things out together.

In roseburg, evita garza kezi 9 news.

Now