The development of a child of color can be challenging in a society where prejudice against color is the order of the day. It is important to parents and the community as a whole to create some models that will enable the child to overcome racial dissent. The community plays a critical role towards building the esteem of children that are under the threat of discrimination. Their primary role is to help the children grow esteem and have a positive view of them. Raising a child’s self-esteem would be essential in thwarting low self-concept thus help the child grow healthy and strong in the community (Cabrera, 2013). To achieve this, community and family must do the following;
Identity development
It is essential for the child of color to develop a positive self-identity to overcome negative stereotypes that devalue their fundamental rights. It is the role of the family to ensure that a proper sense of identity is instilled in the child in the early stages to help positively deal with stereotypical mentality. Research indicates that racial identity has been a success repertoire of skills and strategy for coping with negativity in the society (Campbell et al., 2010). As a result, a child grows self-esteem and the sense of positivity among their peers. The community and the family remain the primary custodians of identity development, hence must infuse the positive sense of belonging to the children of color.
Communalism
It is critical for the child to develop social ties, bonds, and a culture of social interdependence in the society. It is the responsibility of the family as well as the community to imbue the child with the primacy of collective development (Campbell et al., 2010). Developing the sense of communalism enables a child to understand the value of others and the need to remain positive for a collective well-being. Communalism promotes optimism and emotional development that help combat antisocial behavior and promote empathy with peers.
References
Cabrera, N. J. (2013). Positive Development of Minority Children. Sharing Child and Youth Development Knowledge, 27(2).
Campbell, M., Tsikata, K. K., Andoh, E., & Babumba, R. (2010). Resilience in African American Children And Adolescents. A Vision for Optimal Development.
