We feel like children’s books are one of the best ways to promote diversity and acceptance. Here are a few we recommend reading with your little ones.
Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson. An unforgettable book with a powerful anti-bullying message and striking art.
Kid Activists: True Tales of Childhood from Champions of Change by Robin Stevenson. Moving, relatable, and totally true childhood biographies of Martin Luther King Jr., Susan B. Anthony, Helen Keller, Malala Yousafzai, and 12 other inspiring activists.
Malala’s Magic Pencil by Malala Yousafzai. This beautifully illustrated book tells Malala’s story for a younger audience and shows them the worldview that allowed Malala to hold on to hope even in the most difficult of times.
A Rainbow of Friends by P. K. Hallinan. Friends come in all shapes, sizes, and colors; they can be funny or serious, musical or athletic, outgoing or quiet. This book reminds children to celebrate their differences, because those are what make each of us so special.
We Are the Change: Words of Inspiration from Civil Rights Leaders by Harry Belafonte. Sixteen award-winning children’s book artists illustrate the civil rights quotations that inspire them in this stirring and beautiful book. Featuring an introduction by Harry Belafonte, words from Eleanor Roosevelt, Maya Angelou, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. among others.
Racism and Intolerance by Louise Spilsbury. A book where children can get answers to questions like: “What does it mean to be a racist–or intolerant?” and “How can I help?” Children will begin to understand the way others struggle with these issues and become empowered to make a difference.Barnes and Noble
“All Are Welcome” by Alexander Penfold. A warm, welcoming picture book that celebrates diversity and gives encouragement and support to all kids.All Are Welcome
“the big umbrella” by Amy June bates. This sweet extended metaphor uses an umbrella to demonstrate how kindness and inclusion work…A lovely addition to any library collection, for classroom use or for sharing at home. School Library Journal The Big Umbrella
“we’re different, we’re all the same” by Bobbi Kates Who better than¬†Sesame Street¬†to teach us that we may all look different on the outside – but it’s important to remember that deep down, we are all very much alike. We all have the same needs, desires, and feelings. Elmo and his Sesame Street friends help teach toddlers and the adults in their lives that everyone is the same on the inside, and it’s our differences that make this wonderful world, which is home to us all, an interesting‚ and special place.We are Different, We Are The Same
“people” by Peter spier. People uses beautifully detailed pictures to teach the reader about differences and similarities between people around the world. it introduces children to different cultures, lifestyles, and religions.People
“I’m like you, you’re like me: a book about understanding and appreciating each other” by Cindy Gainer. “It’s fun to find ways I’m like you and you’re like me. It’s fun to find ways we’re different.” In this colorful, inviting book, kids from preschool to lower elementary learn about diversity in terms they can understand: hair that’s straight or curly, families with many people or few, bodies that are big or small. With its wide-ranging examples and fun, highly detailed art, I’m Like You, You’re Like Me helps kids appreciate the ways they are alike and affirm their individual differences. A two-page adult section in the back provides tips and activities for parents and caregivers to reinforce the themes and lessons of the book. .I’m Like You, You’re Like Me
We also recommend visiting.The Conscious Kid for 41 children’s books that support conversations on race, racism, and resistance.