As a mother to two children who are Chinese and Mexican, I love purchasing books that celebrate diversity, inclusion and understanding. After all, every family is different. Here are 10 great books that teach children about diversity and how it makes our world special.
“We’re Different, We’re the Same” by Bobbi Kates and Joe Mathieu
A Sesame Street classic, this book teaches children how we can have many of the same emotions and feelings even though we may look different on the outside. Sprinkled with images of our favorite characters, the authors also include images of children from all backgrounds.
“Families, Families, Families!” by Suzanne Lane
What makes up a family? Of course, there are many answers to that question. Suzanne Lane tells children about the many different ways a family can make a family, which doesn’t always include both a mom and dad. The message? Love makes a family.
“Just Ask!: Be Different, Be Brave, Be You” by Sonia Sotomayor and Rafael López
Is there someone who is better equipped to teach a lesson to your child than a U.S. Supreme Court Justice? Maybe not. This children’s book by Sonia Sotomayor tells the story of children with disabilities and encourages other children to “just ask” questions rather than make assumptions.
“A Boy Like You” by Frank Murphy and Kayla Harren
In this book, children learn that sports, cars and superheroes don’t make a boy. The authors teach us that boys can be any profession, have any emotion and are all unique.
“All Are Welcome” by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman
It doesn’t matter where you came from or what you look like, all are welcomed in this book. The authors tell a story of a classroom where children from all backgrounds come together to be friends.
“The Colors of Us” by Karen Katz
A favorite children’s book author in our family, Karen Katz tells the story of a little girl who learns that her skin color isn’t just “brown” — her skin is unique to her and that “brown” can come in all shades. With plenty of colorful adjectives, Katz knows how to use her creativity to teach children a lesson.
“Mommy’s Khimar” by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow and Ebony Glenn
Does your child love to dress up? My kids do! And this story reminded me of my own children who love to head to my closet for my shoes and more. In this story, a Muslim-American girl has fun while trying on her mother’s khimars, a traditional headscarf.
“Pink is for Boys” by Robb Pearlman and Eda Kaban
This book fights the stereotype that pink is a color only for girls by telling children anyone can like any color. Children will see characters come to life in this book where we learn that colors, hobbies and more are unique to each person not each gender.
“Julián Is a Mermaid” by Jessica Love
A book that celebrates individuality, this book tells the story of Julián who dreams of dressing up as a mermaid with long, beautiful hair. Your children will learn about self-love and appreciation, and how to own it.
“This Is How We Do It: One Day in the Lives of Seven Kids from Around the World” by Matt Lamothe
Take a trip around the world and meet children from different countries in this book by Matt Lamothe. Children will learn that the world is bigger than them and the different ways people spend their days.
Have a good children’s book to recommend? Tell us about it in the comments.
San Diego Moms is published every Saturday. Have a story idea? Email hoaq@timesofsandiego.com and follow her on Instagram at @hoawritessd.
