Talking to Jewish children about antisemitism can be challenging, but it’s important to address it in an age-appropriate, sensitive, and empowering way. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate this difficult topic:
Create a Safe Space
Encourage your child to ask questions and express their feelings without fear. Let them know it’s okay to talk about difficult topics like antisemitism.
Pay attention to their concerns, and validate their feelings by letting them know it’s normal to feel upset or confused.
Let your child ask the question and answer the question they asked, not the question you think they asked or are afraid they are asking. Keep answers concrete and simple without embedded language and then let them ask for more information.
Use Age-Appropriate Language
Focus on fairness and kindness. Explain that some people don’t understand that we’re all different, and this can lead to unkindness or exclusion. To learn more, click here.
Example: “Sometimes, people say mean things because they don’t know how special it is that people come from different cultures and religions.”
You can explain the history of antisemitism in a simplified way, discussing how stereotypes and misinformation can lead to unfair treatment.
Example: “Some people might say negative things about Jews because of misunderstandings or because they don’t know much about our history.”
Make sure you are listing and learn how to identify bullying. To learn more, click here.
Focus on Jewish Pride
Teach them that Judaism stands for kindness, justice, and community. Reinforce their sense of pride in their Jewish identity.
Example: “Our values teach us to treat everyone with respect, and that’s something to be proud of, even when others don’t understand.”
Share stories of Jewish resilience and the community’s ability to overcome challenges.
Example: “The Jewish people have faced hard times, but we’ve always found ways to stay strong and support one another.”
Educate About History
For older children, books or age-appropriate films can help explain the history of antisemitism and the importance of standing up against hate.
Empower Them to Respond
Encourage them to speak up if they encounter antisemitism, but also emphasize safety. Role-play possible responses they can use if someone says something hurtful.
Example: “If someone says something mean, you can say, ‘That’s not true about Jewish people, and it’s not kind to say things like that.’”
Remind them that they can always talk to you, a teacher, or a trusted adult if they experience or witness antisemitism.
Highlight the Importance of Allies
Share examples of people, both Jewish and non-Jewish, who stand up against antisemitism and support Jewish communities.
Example: “There are many people who believe in standing up for others, and together, we can make sure that everyone is treated with respect.”
Instill Hope and Action
Let your child know that things are getting better, and people are working together to reduce hate.
Example: “A lot of people are working hard to make sure that everyone is treated fairly, and we can be part of that by showing kindness and standing up for others.”
Encourage involvement in activities that promote understanding and tolerance, like interfaith events or community service.
By framing the conversation in terms of Jewish pride, resilience, and the importance of kindness, you help your child feel empowered rather than fearful, fostering a positive sense of identity while acknowledging the reality of antisemitism.
Key Talking Points for Speaking to Children, Schools, and Community Groups About Antisemitism
Here are organized tools and tips from various resources on how to approach conversations about antisemitism with children, schools, and community groups.
- Take a breath: Calm yourself before speaking to your child.
- Put on your oxygen mask first: Understand your own feelings before trying to help your child.
- Answer only what is asked: Your child’s question might be simpler than you think. Clarify what your child wants to know. E.g. “Where did I come from?” might be about a location and not the intricacies of sex education.
- Language to use: Thank you for telling me; you did nothing wrong. What did you hear? What do you already know? Speak honestly and matter-of-factly. You are entitled to say, “That’s a great question, and I need to think about my answer.”
- Positive word substitutions: Avoid words such as hate, discrimination. Try “Some people haven’t yet learned how to be nice to everyone,” etc.
- Feelings: Talk about them openly. Validate your child’s feelings and assure your child that they are safe.
- Create Ongoing Conversations: The American Psychological Association emphasizes that it’s essential for parents to have ongoing, honest discussions about antisemitism rather than avoiding the topic. Keep communication open and frequent, even when it feels challenging.
- Age-Appropriate Language: For younger children, keep explanations simple and offer reassurance. As children get older, you can provide more historical context. Always invite questions and clarify any misconceptions.
- Empower Children: Help children develop responses to discriminatory statements. Practice using phrases like, “That’s not kind,” or “I disagree with you, and here’s why.” This builds resilience and gives them confidence in standing up for themselves and others.
- Encourage Questions: Create a safe space for children to express their thoughts and emotions about antisemitism. Ask open-ended questions like, “What do you know about antisemitism?” and “Have you ever experienced or seen someone being treated unfairly?”
- Early Childhood FAQs: These ADL resources help parents, educators, caregivers and families navigate questions they have regarding anti-bias education and bullying and cyberbullying prevention.
- ADL’s Table Talks: Use the ADL’s Table Talks to foster discussion around current events, antisemitism, and discrimination. These guides help families and educators engage children in conversations, share values, and brainstorm actions to address antisemitism.
- Promote Inclusivity in Classrooms: The ADL offers a guide for Supporting Jewish Students in Classrooms, which outlines how teachers can create a safe and inclusive space for Jewish students during times of heightened antisemitism.
- School Engagement with Diversity: Schools should foster open discussions about hate, identity, and inclusion. The Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships offers resources for schools to combat antisemitism and promote religious inclusivity.
- Addressing Hate After Major Events: After traumatic events like the October 7 Hamas attacks, use ADL resources to help explain complex geopolitical issues to older children (11+ years) in a balanced, non-traumatic way.
- StandWithUs Situation Room: The StandWithUs Situation Room provides real-time updates on the Israel-Hamas conflict. It highlights casualties, hostages, and rocket attacks, and counters misinformation, emphasizing Hamas’s terrorist actions. The page encourages education, participation in rallies, and donations to support Israel. It also shares weekly briefings, facts about the war, and ways to help spread awareness.
- StandWithUs Resources: StandWithUs produces educational booklets on Israel, covering topics like antisemitism, Israel’s history, and responses to common misconceptions. Their materials are available in multiple languages and aim to educate activists, students, and the public.
- Conversations That Matter: This ADL guide provides strategies for discussing antisemitism with young people, helping them understand its roots and impacts while empowering them to respond thoughtfully.
- Books to Read Together: PJ Library and the ADL provide curated lists of children’s books about Jewish culture, the history of antisemitism, and promoting interfaith relationships.
- Empowering Youth After Hate: The ADL provides a toolkit to help young people process their emotions and take positive actions after experiencing or witnessing acts of hate.
- What I told my children when our synagogue was graffitied with a swastika: In the article, Erin Beser the director of Whole Community Inclusion at Jewish Learning Venture recounts explaining to her children that a swastika painted on their synagogue symbolizes hatred toward Jews. She discusses Jewish history, antisemitism, and reassures them that they are safe in America. The conversation ends with a focus on Jewish pride and community solidarity.
- Prayers and Readings: RitualWell has prayers and readings that can be incorporated into a prayer service.
- Supporting Jewish Students in the Classroom: These ADL tips help prepare teachers for talking to Jewish Students in their classrooms.
- Engaging and Disengaging on Social Media: These ADL tips help you navigate social media.
Resources for how to talk to your child and their schools or community groups about antisemitism
These resources cover a range of topics from starting conversations to providing support in schools and community settings, ensuring both parents and educators have the tools to address the rise of antisemitism effectively. Teaching young children about antisemitism requires sensitive and age-appropriate materials. Here are some books, films, music, and media that can introduce young children to themes of tolerance, diversity, and standing up against discrimination, including antisemitism.
By leveraging these resources, parents, schools, and community groups can have informed, sensitive, and empowering conversations about antisemitism, helping to support Jewish children and promote understanding across communities.
- ADL (Anti-Defamation League):The ADL offers resources specifically designed to help parents and educators discuss antisemitism with young people. Their “Conversations that Matter” series helps break down the psychological impact of antisemitism and provides strategies for addressing it in schools and communities.
- Psychology Today: This article outlines how to talk to children about antisemitism in an empathetic and empowering way. It provides tips on role-playing, engaging community allies, and fostering open conversations about difficult topics.
- SchoolSafety.gov: Offers practical advice on how to approach conversations about hate crimes and antisemitism, especially in the wake of violence. It includes tips for supporting children who may feel fear or confusion, along with strategies to empower them during these conversations.
- The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN): Provides a fact sheet on talking to children about antisemitism, hate crimes, and the emotional responses they may experience. This resource is especially helpful for supporting children who feel vulnerable.
- “The Whispering Town” by Jennifer Elvgren
Set during World War II, this picture book tells the story of a Danish family hiding a Jewish family from the Nazis. It introduces young readers to the ideas of bravery, kindness, and resistance to injustice without showing the violence of the Holocaust. - “Terrible Things: An Allegory of the Holocaust” by Eve Bunting
This allegory tells the story of animals in a forest who are captured by “Terrible Things” one group at a time. It teaches children about prejudice, indifference, and the importance of standing up for others. - “The Blessing Cup” by Patricia Polacco
This picture book follows a Jewish family fleeing antisemitism in Russia. It’s a story of hope and resilience, with beautiful illustrations and a touching narrative that introduces the themes of religious intolerance and kindness. - “Hana’s Suitcase” by Karen Levine
Though for slightly older children, this book tells the true story of Hana Brady, a young Jewish girl during the Holocaust, and the museum curator who investigates her life. It provides an accessible way to introduce children to the Holocaust. - “The Tree in the Courtyard: Looking Through Anne Frank’s Window” by Jeff Gottesfeld
A gentle picture book that tells the story of Anne Frank from the perspective of a tree outside her window. It introduces young children to Anne’s story and the impact of antisemitism in a soft, thoughtful way. - “One Yellow Daffodil: A Hanukkah Story” by David A. Adler
In this story, a Holocaust survivor learns to celebrate Hanukkah again after two children show him kindness. It gently touches on themes of loss, survival, and the continuation of Jewish traditions in the face of adversity.
- “The Number on Great-Grandpa’s Arm” (2018)
This short film by HBO uses animation and live action to tell the story of a boy who learns about the Holocaust from his great-grandfather. It’s a sensitive introduction for young children to the topic of antisemitism and history. - “The Present” (Short Film)
Though not directly about antisemitism, this animated short film deals with themes of difference, empathy, and acceptance. It can be used as a way to discuss prejudice and tolerance with young children. - “Pocoyo: Don’t Be Scared” (Animated Series)
This episode from the popular children’s show can help teach young children about acceptance and understanding, using playful, animated characters to explore fear of the unknown and embracing diversity.
- “Where is the Light” by Debbie Friedman
A popular Jewish children’s song that talks about finding light in dark times. It’s a song about resilience, hope, and spreading kindness—ideal for teaching young children about overcoming adversity and hatred. - “Tikkun Olam” (Repair the World)
Many Jewish children’s songs focus on the concept of tikkun olam—repairing the world. Songs with this theme encourage young children to think about their role in promoting kindness and justice in the world. - “Don’t Laugh at Me” by Peter Yarrow
Though not specifically about antisemitism, this song teaches children about bullying and standing up for those who are different. It can be a starting point for discussions about prejudice and empathy.
- “PJ Library”
PJ Library provides free Jewish books for children that often focus on themes of kindness, diversity, and inclusion. While they may not all focus directly on antisemitism, many of the books promote values that counter hatred and prejudice. - “Holocaust Memorial Day Trust: Youth Resources”
While not all resources are tailored to very young children, some sections offer age-appropriate activities and stories that introduce the themes of tolerance, diversity, and respect for others, including Jewish people. - “The Anne Frank House Online for Kids”
This child-friendly section of the Anne Frank House website provides games, videos, and stories that introduce Anne Frank’s life and the lessons of the Holocaust in a sensitive way for younger audiences.
These resources help young children begin to understand complex topics like antisemitism in ways that focus on empathy, courage, and the importance of kindness.
- “It’s Okay to Be Different” by Todd Parr
This colorful book promotes the message that being different is something to celebrate. It helps young children understand and appreciate diversity, which can lead into discussions about why prejudice, including antisemitism, is harmful. - “The Sneetches” by Dr. Seuss
This classic Seuss story uses the Sneetches, with their star-bellied differences, to introduce the idea of discrimination and prejudice, making it a helpful tool for discussing why antisemitism (and other forms of intolerance) are wrong. - “The Colors of Us” by Karen Katz
This book celebrates diversity by showing children how people come in many beautiful shades. It helps young children appreciate differences and can be used to discuss standing up against prejudice and discrimination.
How to report an antisemitic incident
Click here to submit an antisemitic incident to the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia.
Click here to submit an antisemitic incident to ADL.
Click here to submit an antisemitic incident to StandWithUs.
Click here to submit an antisemitic incident to IAC.