Apr 5, 2022
In this highly anticipated interview, Dr. Traci Baxley and I discuss a critical topic in today’s world: raising justice-minded children. Dr. Baxley’s book Social Justice Parenting: How to Raise Compassionate, Anti-Racist, Justice-minded Kids in an Unjust World is incredibly powerful and I recommend that everyone read it. I am thrilled to have Dr. Baxley join the Diverse Thinking Different Learning Podcast today to talk about her book and what exactly Social Justice Parenting really is.
In addition to being an author, Dr. Baxley is also a professor, consultant, parenting coach, speaker, and mother to five children. Her passion and specialization is in belonging, diversity and inclusion, and social justice education. Her guidance is needed now more than ever as we navigate parenting children through a world that doesn’t yet embrace differences. How can we as parents, caretakers, and educators raise children who are compassionate, kind, loving, accepting, and aspire to be change agents? Listen to Dr. Baxley’s important message and get your hands on a copy of her book.
[1:46] - Welcome to the show, Dr. Baxley!
[2:50] - Dr. Baxley’s book Social Justice Parenting resonated with Dr. Wilson’s personal and professional life.
[4:10] - Social Justice Parenting is a way of being intentional and purposeful in how we are raising our children to be more compassionate and be change agents.
[6:04] - We tend to let our own biases and experiences become our guiding light in how we parent.
[7:19] - What is radical love and how can it change the way we parent?
[8:33] - It is not just about race, but all identities.
[10:00] - Dr. Baxley shares the neurodiversity of her family.
[11:12] - It is important to instill a sense of confidence and acceptance of the labels placed by society as a wonderful part of them, rather than something to feel shame about.
[12:04] - When you accept your child for all that they are, it makes it easier for them to accept their life journey too.
[13:34] - It is a daily challenge to parent out of radical love and reflection rather than fear.
[14:55] - We owe our children the acknowledgement of our own mistakes and acting out of alignment with core values.
[16:47] - This modeling is something that your child will remember when they interact with others in the world.
[18:55] - There are times when children who learn differently will not feel included.
[19:45] - As parents and caregivers, it is our job to create a safe space.
[21:30] - Dr. Baxley shares one of the ways she changes her thinking when listening to her children intentionally in different scenarios.
[22:50] - Who makes up the team outside the home for your children?
[24:37] - We build a compassionate village that extends beyond our home.
[25:50] - Show kindness to yourself as well.
[26:56] - Through even little things, you can model social justice engagement.
[28:52] - Micro acts of kindness can change someone’s life.
[30:08] - Dr. Baxley’s book is available and her work is making an impact.
Dr. Traci Baxley is a professor, consultant, parenting coach, speaker, and mother to five children. She is the creator of Social Justice Parenting™ and the author of Social Justice Parenting: How to Raise Compassionate, Anti-Racist, Justice-minded Kids in an Unjust World. An educator for over 30 years with degrees in child development, elementary education, and curriculum and instruction, she specializes in belonging, diversity and inclusion, anti-bias curriculum, and social justice education. As a diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant, Dr. Baxley supports organizations and corporations in developing inclusive practices and policies that lead to workplace belonging and high productivity.
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The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.