Children's Books that Celebrate Diversity
One of the many things I’ve learned throughout the ongoing anti-racism movement taking place in America is that kids should be spoken to about racism. To be honest, this was new information to me! I truly thought the best way to handle issues of race with children was to not discuss it. I assumed as long as my children saw me treat every human equally, fairly, and with kindness - that would be enough. That not making race an issue at all would send the message that the color of someone’s skin didn’t matter. I now know that’s not enough. Of course it’s important to display kindness, but based on the research I’ve done (and continue to do) I’ve learned racism is a topic parents should actively discuss with their children (in an age appropriate way, of course).
Here is where I must say that I’m NO expert, and I’m definitely not the best resource for you on this topic. I simply want to share with blog readers what I’ve learned as well as show you some of the books I’ve purchased for Kate in recent weeks. Based on conversations I’ve had with my girlfriends, I know I’m not the only mom whose eyes were opened on this subject matter. I’m hoping someone will find this information helpful. ❤️
If you’re a parent and want to read more about this topic, I’d like to point you towards the following articles from people much better equipped to teach you than I am:
Talking to Kids About Racism (New York Times)
How to Talk to Your Kids About Race (Maisonette.com)
Of course Kate is too young to begin a dialogue on the subject of racism, so I’ve started by adding more diverse books to her library so she’s exposed to people of color. I actually already owned some good ones, but I recently purchased some more and will continue to do so. I’m also going to link some books that are great for little girls, since gender is obviously an important topic as well. I always want Kate to feel empowered as a girl in this world!
Finally, one company I want to mention that does a GREAT job with diversity in their product (toys & books) is Lovevery. It’s a subscription toy service - highly recommend!
XOXO,
Liz
KATE’S BOOKS
ABC What Can She Be by Sugar Snap Studio (this is one of Kate’s favorites! teaches the alphabet and that girls can grow up to be anything they want to be!)
First 100 Words / Primeras 100 Palabras by Bright Baby (another one of Kate’s favorites! teaches Spanish words, bright and colorful)
Little People Big Dreams - Board Book Collection (each book tells the story of an important female historical figure - Rosa Parks, Frida Kahlo, Maya Angelou, and more)
Saturday by Oge Mora (about a little girl who looks forward to spending time with her working mom on the weekends)
The Sandwich Swap by Queen Rania of Jordan Al Abdullah (teaches about diversity of culture and food)
Whistle for Willie by Ezra Jack Keats (about a little boy who learns to whistle)
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Lastly, here are some round ups from other websites I found. There are so many good books out there to choose from!
50 Books that Celebrate Diversity, TheEveryMom.com
10 Books to Reach with Your Kids About Racism and Diversity, CamilleStyles.com (breaks down book suggestion into age ranges)
16 Books to Bring Racial Diversity into Your Child’s Collection, Maisonette.com
13 Books About Race and Diversity, PBS Kids