Is it hard to raise a bi-racial (Black/White) child in today's world?

Question

My son Aaron is 18 months. His father is Black and I, his mother, am White. Aaron mostly sees my family, and not much of his father's- simply because of conveinence. His father and I have been together for 6 years now- What are your thoughts???

Answer 1

It's hard to raise any kid anytime. Try to make sure your son has black role models not just white ones. My step-kids didn't have any exposure to blacks while growing up and they don't know how to handle it (in their 20's now). I believe they are handicapped by lack of access to blacks during their life (except their dad). Make more of a special effort to be involved with your hubby's family or friends, too--so they can embrace and feel comfortable with both/all cultures.

Answer 2

I do not think that it is hard raising bi-racial children in the world today. I am bi-racial, my brother also, and it was hard for me to know what race I was when I was younger because I never knew my father or his family. I believe that as long as your son knows that he is half black and half white, whether or not he sees his other grandparents and all very often, there should not be any playground fights because of other kids arguing about what race he is...unlike there were when I was growing up because I believed I was white. In my community now I also have seen more bi-racial children being born every year and children these days are more accustomed to seeing different skin toned people unlike the '80s .

Answer 3

I dont think there is a problem with having bi-racial children. I think it is more accepted today. To be honest I think they come out so adorable. Especially black mixed with white. My cousin has 2 mixed children and they are the cutest things!! The only thing I would suggest is to invlove your children with the fathers side of the family too. Even though its convient for them to see your family I think you should make it 50/50. They have 2 cultures in their blood and they have the right to know their backgrounds. Other than that I think you should be proud of your children and dont worry about what others may think. I dont think bi-racial children are given a second look now a days...its more common now.

Answer 4

its just fine because most bi-racial children are beautiful.. like Alicia Keys, Mariah Carey, and Will Demps. When ur child gets a little older like into the teens, there will be a little confusion when he starts to fill out applications of which race to put (even though it wont matter) sometimes u can only pick one but other than that.. its great being bi-racial because I am and im sure my child will be as well

Answer 5

not if u dont let it be, all u can do is give ur child the best of both worlds n let him know that life may be hard but its life, n no matta what his race is he should n will have the same opportunitys as anyone else. tell him that he like everyone else will have to prove he is worth more than what small minded ppl think of him. dont lie to him, kids respect u more when the r not shocked by a lie. my boys get looked down on from time to time bc ppl think they r mexican n we r native american, like i tell my kids u r the minority now, n u are worth the world u just have to not let the small minded ppl get in ur way. racisms is ugly n will always be here.

Answer 6

Why is it so hard?? Interacial relationsips are so common these days that I personally see no color. You raise your child the way you would raise any child. Regardless of color. Try to keep him involved in both sides of his family. If its a positive enviorment its easier for him to grow up knowing who he is. As he gets older keep him involved in both his culture with both neagative and positive aspects of them. Exposure is the best learning tool. Buy him cultural books starting now age appropiate of course. Its always a good experience to be exposed to diffrent cultres as well. He can learn that we may look diffrent but, turn us inside out we are all the same.

Answer 7

No, but there are some ignorant people who might have a remark to make at some point. You have been blessed with a beautiful son. He will grow up loving both races and cultures. Your love and guidance will make him strong. Teach him to love and pray for anyone who reacts negatively.

Answer 8

It probably isn't as hard as it would have been 10 years ago. I don't know why you are worrying about it, it's kind of too late to take back the choice now isn't it? Now is just the time to keep going and face problems as they come up.

Answer 9

I don't think it will be hard for you to raise your child. Just think! he will know two cultures and worlds. Unfortunately, there are children, adults and other stupid people who will probably be unjustifiably mean, nasty, and rude throughout your child's life. You will have to help him to understand about the moron's in this world. Best of luck.

Answer 10

I have a few bi-racial friends and they surround themselves with people who see them for who they are..not their racial mix. I dont think they will have a problem growing up, you just need to teach them to appreciate both sets of families.