Educating African American children : breaking the silence

It is inappropriate to view all children as the same, even when they may look very similar or share a cultural background. Differences exist in and among all racial and ethnic groups at all social levels. It would be dangerous to read information on diversity and apply it as if all people in that particular group are the same. Cultural information can promote understanding and insight for all. It is necessary to understand the challenges and issues that children of diverse backgrounds are faced with in order to facilitate positive change and resiliency in the counseling process. The author provides an overview of the lack of academic success among African American students, the effects it has on them, as well as implications and interventions for school counselors working with a diverse population