Peer-reviewed article

"We fight for what is right": A critical framework of ethnic-racial socialization in early childhood.

Esther J Calzada, Chelsea Derlan Williams · 13 Oct 2026

Abstract

The present study proposes a framework of critical ethnic-racial socialization. A pilot study with 74 parents (32% Latinx; 27% Black; 19% White; 11% Asian; 8% Multiracial; 3% indigenous) and their 3- to 7-year-old children (57% girls) conducted in 2024-2025 was used to instantiate the framework. Specifically, behavioral observations of parent-child play served to establish proof of concept. Data were consistent with the ethnic-racial socialization literature (i.e., ethnic-racial heritage, ethnic-racial pride, preparation for bias) and the critical consciousness literature (i.e., critical awareness, critical action). Data further suggested messages about ethnic-racial diversity, acceptance and inclusion, and appreciation of diversity. Findings show that even in early childhood, parents engage in strategies to promote children's ethnic-racial identity and critical consciousness.