One of them works to fight racism before it can take root, 10TV's Andrea Cambern reported.

The YWCA's Racial Justice program is in 23 schools.

SPECIAL SECTION:  Female Focus

"We created (the program) because we know that racism and injustice is a learned behavior," said Courtnee Carrigan, the program's director.  "We wanted our students to start understanding diversity more at a younger age."

According to Carrigan, the U.S. is more diverse than ever and the program helps children learn to appreciate differences.

"This is a very interactive curriculum," Carrigan said.  "Kids don't want to hear somebody talking at them all the time."

The program includes toys, games, art and music.  Children construct buildings to show that differences can be interesting.

"If there was a kid in the house, I would say, 'Hi.  Would you like to be my friend?'" said Jalynn Johnson, a student.

The three-year curriculum has become a model for others around the U.S.  According to Carrigan, teachers notice that children respect each other more and bully less after a few months.

"You can learn more about the person and then you can become friends with them," said Bianca Addison, a student.  "It's kind of cool to have someone different from you."

More Information:

• YWCA Racial Justice Program

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