Children must learn to live with people from many racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds.

Parents can help children prepare. Here are some suggestions:

Celebrate your family's heritage. Help your children be proud of their background. They might talk with older relatives to gather family memories. You might prepare special ethnic foods. Library books can also help your family learn more about your roots.

Learn more about other cultures. You might want to try eating in restaurants that serve food from another culture. Television programs or books are a good way to learn about other countries. Keep a map or globe nearby when watching the news.

Encourage your children to study another language. Nearly all students in other countries learn to speak foreign languages. The ability to talk with others in their own language will be vital as Americans travel and conduct business in the future.

Talk openly about prejudice and stereotypes. Help your children recognize these behaviors when they see them.

The National PTA has developed a brochure that can help parents with this sensitive subject. "What to Tell Your Child About Prejudice and Discrimination" offers practical suggestions. Single copies are available free. Send a self-addressed, stamped business-size envelope to National PTA, Prejudice Pub, 700 N. Rush St., Chicago, IL 60611.

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