Children's Books on Diversity and Inclusion
It’s been an incredibly powerful few weeks for the #BlackLivesMatter movement and diversity and inclusion in general. Today I am sharing some of my favorite children’s books that are in our bedtime books rotation.
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The Colors of Us - This is a new one in our library, and I just love it. Beautifully written about the different skin colors we all have. The descriptions and illustrations are spectacular.
We’re Different, We’re the Same - This was our first book purchase on our quest to celebrate the differences in all people. Of course, Sesame Street characters make it familiar for kids and the message is fantastic. A great foundation book for all little libraries.
Last Stop on Market Street - This 2016 Newbury Medal winner has been a favorite in our home for a few years now. The main character, CJ (also the nickname for our own middle girl), takes a bus ride with his grandmother through the city and opens our eyes to a different world. Love this one and especially the ending.
Princess Hair - Such a fun rhyming book that talks about and celebrates all of the different types of hair and hairstyles that black girls have. My own girls like to pick out which hairstyle is their current favorite of the day, and the kinky curls (CJ has springy curls) are a big favorite in our home.
Little Heroes of Color - This adorable board book features 50 cartoon profiles of people of color who helped change the world. Madame CJ Walker is a household favorite, not only because of her name, but the amazing hat she is depicted wearing! How incredible that she was the first self-made female millionaire in the United States.
Just Ask! - This is the newest favorite, and the girls choose this book at least 3 times a week. Written by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, this book focuses on inclusion. Justice Sotomayor grew up with diabetes which formed the inspiration for this book. The girls love to talk about how I had gestational diabetes when I was pregnant with the twins. There is a character that uses an inhaler (our middle girl does too), as well as a character with food allergies (our family checks that box too!). I definitely recommend this book for all.
Have you read any of these books with your kids or do you have any more favorites to add to the list? Comment below and let me know!