Five Tools to Help You Talk with Your Kids about Antisemitism

Talking to your children about antisemitism may feel awkward and challenging. It’s a broad topic filled with nuance, but it is also personal. People react differently to experiencing antisemitism. It’s critical to both assess your child’s knowledge and approach the topic in an age-appropriate way. 

We’ve curated five excellent resources to help you teach your children about antisemitism, bullying, and the emotions that can follow traumatic events. 

• "Children's Books That Tackle Antisemitism And Difference," an article from The Forward, written by PJ Library's Sarah Ruderman Wilensky, offers a list of age-appropriate books to share with your children.
   
• "Talk and Take Action: Parents' & Caregivers' Guide to Countering Antisemitism," co-written by Nickelodeon and USC Shoah Foundation - The Institute for Visual History and Education, helps kids resist prejudice against the Jewish community. 
   
• Edutopia, founded by Star Wars director George Lucas in 1991, is committed to improving K-12 education and inspiring lifelong learners. "Teaching Young Children About Bias, Diversity, and Social Justice" was written for educators, but it also has many great resources and tips easily accessible to parents and caregivers. 
   
• "Talking to Children about Hate Crimes and Antisemitism" was written by experts at the National Child Traumatic Stress Network after an antisemitic shooting. It provides tips for assessing what your child already knows and speaking with them compassionately and at their level. 
   
• Antisemitism, Explained is a series of videos produced by Unpacked for Education, which provides content about both Jewish and Israel Education. These videos are good for children in middle school and above. 

For more information, visit Reform Judaism’s page on Addressing Antisemitism.