How Young Children Perceive Race [Paperback]

Using the results of a participant observation study, Robyn M Holmes illustrates how young children learn about ethnic identity. Unlike many previous studies, performed in experimental and contrived settings, the author worked with children in a kindergarten environment. The resulting account uses the children's own words and drawings to illustrate their beliefs and understanding about race and ethnicity. Particular issues addressed include: how children understand group boundaries; view their selves; and develop an ethnic component of friendship, romance and procreation.Using the results of a participant observation study, Robyn M Holmes illustrates how young children learn about ethnic identity. Unlike many previous studies, performed in experimental and contrived settings, the author worked with children in a kindergarten environment. The resulting account uses the children's own words and drawings to illustrate their beliefs and understanding about race and ethnicity. Particular issues addressed include: how children understand group boundaries; view their selves; and develop an ethnic component of friendship, romance and procreation.Introduction
Field Methods
Working with Children
The Elementary Schools
Categories and Cognition
Conceptions of Self
Friendship and Ethnicity
Procreation and Race
Conclusion