9 Books to Teach Kids About Diversity & Inclusion
Teaching kids about diversity, social injustice, and how to be inclusive is important to raise kind humans! Books can be an excellent conversation starter about diversity and inclusivity, but there are so many out there to choose from! That’s why we have put together a list of some of our favorite books about diversity for children and families to read together!
Books about diversity for babies & young readers
a. Antiracist Baby by Ibram X. Kendi
b. Happy in Our Skin by Fran Manushkin
c. How Do You Say I Love You? By Hannah Eliot
d. I’m Like You, You’re Like Me by Cindy Gainer
e. Different is Awesome by Ryan Haack
Books about diversity for older children
1) Books about diversity for babies & young readers
a) Antiracist Baby by Ibram X. Kendi
Written by the founder of the Antiracist Research and Policy Center at American University, this book’s eye-catching illustrations and inclusive language make it the perfect introduction to concepts like race, equality & social justice. This is a great board book to add to any baby’s nursery shelf!
b) Happy in Our Skin by Fran Manushkin
The catchy rhymes and vibrant pictures in this sweet book will hold your child’s attention as they learn about the beauty of different skin tones from cocoa brown and cinnamon to peaches and cream.
c) How Do You Say I Love You? By Hannah Eliot
Your baby will adore hearing you say, “I love you,” over and over again in ten different languages as he takes a journey around the world through beautiful, detailed illustrations. Together, you will travel the globe while you learn about how different cultures express the most important thing of all: love.
d) I’m Like You, You’re Like Me by Cindy Gainer
Kids notice similarities and differences between themselves and others. This book addresses that head-on, providing honest words and an excellent foundation to help kids accept others’ differences. It also comes with a handy guide to help parents continue the conversation.
e) Different is Awesome by Ryan Haack
This simple but impactful book tells the story of a young boy who was born with only one hand. As children in a Show & Tell session ask him questions, they recognize that everyone has differences that make them unique. This book definitely gets kids thinking about important themes like inclusion, acceptance, and perseverance.
f) All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold
This engaging story walks children through a day at school where everyone is welcomed with open arms. Throughout the book, children of different races, ethnicities, religions, and abilities come together to celebrate each other’s differences. This book not only helps to educate kids about diversity but also conveys the valuable message that everyone should feel welcome and accepted.
g) The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson
Sometimes you feel left out, different, and like you just do not fit in. This powerful book demonstrates that everyone has a story to tell and will help inspire kids to view differences as opportunities to connect with others and find their own inner strength.
2) Books about diversity for older children
a) It All Comes Down to This by Karen English
Middle school is a tough time for most kids and Sophie is no exception. As she navigates being the new Black kid in a mostly white neighborhood and deals with discord in her home life, Sophie learns about racial tension, discrimination, and herself. This book provides children with important historical context that is still relevant to the issues of today.
b) Flying Lessons and Other Stories by Ellen Oh
This inspirational collection of short stories was written by some of the most celebrated children’s authors. Each story features a young, diverse protagonist navigating obstacles. Their perseverance, understanding, and acceptance show kids how to honor diversity. The themes of friendship, identity, first crushes, and sibling rivalry will be recognizable to all children.
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