Name: How to teach kids to talk about taboo topics
Uploaded: 2019-02-20T20:56:23Z
Duration: 11 min 51 s
Description: When one of Liz Kleinrock's fourth-grade students said the unthinkable at the start of a class on race, she knew it was far too important a teachable moment to miss. But where to start? Learn how Kleinrock teaches kids to discuss taboo topics without fear -- because the best way to start solving social problems is to talk about them.

When one of Liz Kleinrock's fourth-grade students said the unthinkable at the start of a class on race, she knew it was far too important a teachable moment to miss. But where to start? Learn how Kleinrock teaches kids to discuss taboo topics without fear -- because the best way to start solving social problems is to talk about them.

How to teach kids to talk about taboo topics

Children are ready for complex conversations if adults create space for honesty and learning. When a fourth-grader compared skin color to poop, the class erupted, exposing how deeply ingrained biases and taboos can be. Addressing tough subjects head-on, rather than avoiding or shaming, helps students develop empathy, language, and confidence to discuss issues like race, identity, and consent. Building a foundation early allows kids to grow into thoughtful, open-minded adults prepared to tackle real-world problems.