SOMA Living May 2024

COALITION ON RACE Talking to Children about Race Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s understanding of race and racism, and in helping them develop a healthy racial identity. Open and honest conversations are critical, though they can be challenging to navigate. It’s important to start these conversations early as children internalize beliefs about race at a very young age. Even infants notice racial differences, and sometimes showing a preference for a person whose race matches their own. By age 10, children’s beliefs about race may be deeply ingrained. Intention and consistency are key. This approach helps your child develop a nuanced understanding of race and to critically analyze messages from media and peers. Moreover, engaging in regular, proactive conversations about race lays the groundwork for anti-racist attitudes and actions. Don’t wait for your child to bring up the topic, instead tailor discussions to their needs and to developmental stages. While you don’t need to be an expert, you do need to examine your own biases, your understanding of racism, and your feelings about racial inequity. Show your child your willingness to grow and learn together. Seek out age-appropriate books and media at your local library. These conversations can bring up strong feelings, so allow space for emotions related to injustices. Teach your child the most effective ways to intervene when they witness or experience racist speech or behavior. For more strategies, tips, and resources for creating a home environment that supports open communication about race and difference from the Coalition’s Schools Committee, visit our website communitycoalitiononrace.org.

GENTLE LANDING Nurturing New Beginnings FOUNDER: ALYSSA WALL Women’s Health NP & Mom In-home, newborn education for new parents Enabling calm, confident transitions into parenthood Postpartum care/recovery Contact: agentlelanding@gmail.com Learn more: www.agentlelanding.com *Maplewood’s Trusted Parenthood Partner*

A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO PHYSICAL THERAPY Specializing in Pelvic Health, Oncology, Lymphedema, and Wellness. A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO PHYSICAL THERAPY Specializing in Pelvic Health, Oncology, Lymphedema, and Wellness.

Pre-natal and Post-partum Care Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Pelvic Pain Urinary Symptoms Bowel Issues Orthopedic Issues related to Pelvic Health Oncology Breast Oncology Lymphedema Pre-natal and Post-partum Care Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Pelvic Pain Urinary Symptoms Bowel Issues Orthopedic Issues related to Pelvic Health Oncology Breast Oncology Lymphedema

Nancy Gagnier, Executive Director of the South Orange/ Maplewood Community Coalition on Race, develops pro-integrative strategies to support racial equity and inclusion.

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