This book offers practical guidance to black parents on how to raise children with positive racial identities and self-identities. Part 1 explains the development of racial identity in the various phases of childhood as it is fostered in the family. Part 2 discusses how to help children navigate the larger world during the school years and beyond. Throughout the book, the authors use the image of a garden for the family. In part 1, chapter 1 discusses black parenthood and the importance of being able to talk about racism with children. Chapter 2 looks at building self-image and self-esteem. Chapter 3 describes modeling and reinforcement. Chapter 4 explores the importance of communication. Chapter 5 reviews racial images in the family. Chapter 6 discusses issues particular to infants and toddlers. Part 2 begins with chapter 7 on racial identity and the school-age child. Chapter 8 discusses adolescence as the crossroads of the garden path. Chapter 9 discusses coming of age, including the roles of the church, community organizations, informal support, and relating to other races and ethnic groups. Contains a resource guide and a 22-item bibliography. (JB)