Raising the Next Generation: A Q&A with Britt Hawthorne on Equity and Inclusivity

At Waypoint Montessori, our mission is to provide an environment that fosters the full potential of every child as a productive, culturally aware, and empowered citizen of the world. In today’s world, that work includes a deep commitment to inclusivity and antiracism. We are delighted to share a conversation with Britt Hawthorne—an antiracist educator, teacher, and New York Times Bestselling author of Raising Antiracist Children: A Practical Parenting Guide. Britt’s work aligns beautifully with our goal of nurturing global citizens.

Practicality for Busy Waypoint Families

Q: Your book is subtitled A Practical Parenting Guide. Since our families often balance full schedules, where do you suggest they begin this work in a way that feels manageable and grounded?

Britt: Begin by fostering "brave spaces" at home. Brave spaces are intentional areas focused on coming together with a new understanding. I know our commitments live in our actions. For example, if you notice your home library lacks representation of Latino, Native American, or South Asian characters, share that observation with your partner or child. By preparing a home environment that values diversity, you are showing your children that equity is a lived value, not just an abstract idea.

Curiosity in the Montessori Home

Q: At Waypoint, we often talk about following the child’s natural desire to learn. How do you uphold this principle when discussing race and identity?

Britt: One of my core principles is that children have a deep desire to learn. This means we welcome questions and even mistakes. I encourage parents to create "curious moments" by asking open-ended questions:

• “I wonder if there are more people of color in the world or white people?”
• “Do you hear people talking about race at school? What do you hear?”

When children ask questions that feel "tricky," respond with curiosity rather than fear or silence. If a child notices a physical difference, you can say, “That’s a curious question. I’m not sure of the answer, so let’s find a book from the library to learn more together.”

The Connection to Montessori Philosophy

Q: You often speak about the intersection of social justice and Montessori. How do you see this connecting to the daily life of a Montessorian?

Britt: The Montessori philosophy has everything it needs to serve every child. As Amelia A. Sherwood said, “Montessori education has the ability to liberate the child!”

At Waypoint, you witness this through the cycle of spiritual preparation: taking care of ourselves, taking care of others, and taking care of the environment. These are the same commitments antiracists use to guide their work. Whether it is a Toddler practicing Grace and Courtesy or an Adolescent engaging in community care, we are practicing the skills of liberation and equity every single day.

Recommended Resources for our Community

Q: We are a community of learners. What resources do you recommend for our families and our Guides?

For Adults:

• Raising Antiracist Children: A Practical Parenting Guide by Britt Hawthorne with Natasha Yglesias.

For Our Students:

• Bodies Are Cool by Tyler Feder
• Together: A First Conversation about Love by Megan Madison & Jessica Ralli
• You Hold Me Up by Monique Gray Smith
• The Antiracist Kid by Tiffany Jewell
• Eyes That Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho

Moving From Goal to Reality

At Waypoint Montessori, we believe that education is the most powerful tool for changing the world. By partnering with educators like Britt Hawthorne and engaging in these brave conversations at home and in the classroom, we move closer to making educational equity a reality for every child on our nine-acre campus and beyond.



To learn more about Britt’s work, please visit britthawthorne.com.