Fostering Inclusivity: A Guide to Diverse Children's Books & Strategies for Parents & Educators
Spreading values of acceptance and embracing diversity in children is paramount to a safe and loving society. Books are only one way to help children hold an expanded worldview. As an Anthropologist, it is both fascinating and gutwrenching to watch how we villainize certain groups based on sexual orientation, race, religion, physical ability, and the like. We can look at history and see media depictions of people of color as abusers, drug lords, and the underbelly of society. Media destroys our connection to the realness of humanity and the genuine beauty of diversity. As a result, children will gravitate towards what they are taught is safe and often that is sticking with people who walk, talk, and look the way they do. But diversity and inclusion are the essence of humanity. Through inclusion, we invite solutionaries to the table and we expand our potential as a society to evolve past our social constructs. Our children's ability to be inclusive will be the hallmark of solving our economic and healthcare crisis where representation is not only considered but at the core of not surviving but thriving as a society.
"The Colors of Us" by Karen Katz: Alongside reading "The Colors of Us," parents and educators can engage children in conversations about the beauty of diverse skin tones. Encourage them to explore their own uniqueness and that of others, fostering a sense of appreciation for the colorful spectrum that humanity offers.
"The Sneetches and Other Stories" by Dr. Seuss: Use Dr. Seuss's timeless tale as a conversation starter. Discuss with children the consequences of prejudice and how, just like the Sneetches, people are more alike than different. Encourage open dialogue about embracing differences and finding common ground.
"All Are Welcome" by Alexandra Penfold: Complement the message of "All Are Welcome" by creating inclusive spaces at home and in the classroom. Parents and educators can organize activities that celebrate various cultures, fostering an environment where every child feels valued and accepted.
"The Family Book" by Todd Parr: Extend the lessons from "The Family Book" by encouraging children to share their own family stories. Parents and educators can invite diverse family members to share experiences, reinforcing the idea that families are unique and special in their own ways.
"Last Stop on Market Street" by Matt de la Peña: Following the reading of "Last Stop on Market Street," parents and educators can organize field trips or virtual experiences to expose children to the richness of diverse communities. These experiences help broaden perspectives and instill an appreciation for the diverse tapestry of urban life.
"I Am Enough" by Grace Byers: Supplement the empowering message of "I Am Enough" with activities that boost children's self-esteem. Parents and educators can create affirmations or art projects that celebrate each child's individuality, reinforcing the idea that they are worthy just as they are.
"And Tango Makes Three" by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell: After reading "And Tango Makes Three," parents and educators can initiate conversations about diverse family structures. This book provides an opportunity to teach children about different family compositions, fostering understanding and empathy.
When we stop hearing each other out and label people, we dilute possibility and frankly, we design a false reality. The reality is that people have differences. By teaching that beliefs and values are personal virtues versus social law, we grow environments that are safe for fair medicine, education with representation, competitive workplaces where talent shines over politics, and ethics are the beacon of change.
Love for each other means caring for people. Without love for each other, we have a sick society in which to build our lives. In a sick society, we have unsafe schools, toxic food sources, inadequate and costly healthcare, and tense or dense public spaces that lack art, culture, and life. Instilling values of inclusivity involves more than just reading books—it requires intentional actions and connected open discussions. I want to watch as our children grow into compassionate, inclusive individuals, prepared to contribute positively to our wonderfully diverse world. A place where their beliefs and values can be expressed without the need to overpower another’s.
