Regardless of the racial or ethnic composition of their classrooms, teachers need to develop a multicultural classroom environment in which they: (1) teach children to respect others' cultures and values; (2) help all children learn to function successfully in a multicultural, multiracial society; (3) develop a positive self-concept in those children who are most affected by racism; (4) help all children experience, in positive ways, both their differences as culturally diverse people and their similarities as human beings; and (5) encourage children to view people of diverse cultures working together as unique parts of a whole community. This book provides theoretical background and practical suggestions for teachers in reaching those goals. Using a developmental framework, the book discusses children's growing racial awareness and their perceptions of other people. A complete resource unit on affirming cultural diversity is outlined and includes a wide range of ideas for activities. Setting up a multicultural classroom environment is discussed in terms of six primary aspects: language arts, social studies, building blocks, dramatic play, music and games, and cooking. In addition, there is an annotated bibliography of multicultural children's books and a checklist to help teachers determine which aspects of their curriculum need more emphasis on cultural diversity. (JMK)