Parent to Parent: Mixed race families

And when two cultures are blended into one colorful happy family, kids have a lot of tough questions.

From Seal and Heidi Klum's blended family to Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's multi-cultural brood mixed race families are becoming more and more common.

But raising kids with mixed cultures comes with many challenges.

Hillary Washington, mom
"People look more to try to figure out. I mean, it's human nature to figure stuff out, but people will look and say, 'ok, well who is she, and who is he and those two kids? Well, that couldn't be.'"

It can be tough to raise a child who's comfortable in his or her skin, but experts say it all starts at home.

Dr. Valerie Goode, parenting expert
"In a mixed race family, it's important to develop your own sense of identity as a family, even if they are mixed races. What is your tradition as a family?"

And when those tough questions do hit, be up front. It's never too early to talk about your family's heritage.

Dr. Valerie Goode, parenting expert
"But definitely, if your child is asking about cultures, it's a great opportunity to explain the differences between people but also explain that we find similarities between people, too."

Also, give your kids the tools they need to learn about where it is they come from. And parents, it may be a good chance to find out more as well.

Dr. Valerie Goode, parenting expert
"So have books and videos and all the different things, all the different things from that child's background to share, and makes the child feel, you know, accepted."

And finally, give your child the freedom to explore when it comes to their cultural identity.

Dr. Valerie Goode, parenting expert
"Your child is going to question who he or she is. The parents have to learn to be more comfortable with it."

In the end, a happy, loving family is the most important thing.

Experts also say that the key to giving your kids pride in their background is structure. Try celebrating holidays or traditions specific to both.

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