Woodbury psychologist discusses best ways to talk to children about racism

As the protests continue across the country in the wake of George Floyd's death, parents nationwide are trying to figure out how to talk to their children about the demonstrations and about fighting racism.
Dr. Jeffrey Kassinove is a psychologist and family therapist from Woodbury. He says what is most important is stressing to your kids that they are safe.
"And then also let them understand that this is a big time in America where this could have some big positive effects and we just don't know," said Kassinove.
Kenna is 8 years old. The Long Island third grader saw the George Floyd video. She says her mom and dad helped her deal with the disturbing video.
Kenna's mom says she's had quite a few conversations with her daughter about recent events.
"I do bring it up sometimes because I know she can sense my anxiety and yesterday it was at an all-time high," said Kenna's mother. "I also think it's important for her to know that what happened to this poor man is unfair and I want her to know the truth."
When talking with your children, experts say it's also important to find something positive in all that is going on. That while racism and violence are terrible, what might come out of this is more attention on those issues.
Experts also say the age of the child impacts how in depth you get. He says with a child second grade or younger, it's probably best to try to limit exposure of current events to them.
undefined