We are currently living through a heavy time in history. I have been extremely quiet in this space lately, but I wanted to hop on and share some resources that have helped in talking to my children about what is going on in our world today.
I have an almost 6 year old and a 3 1/2 year old. If you know us personally, you know how much my oldest enjoys reading, especially listening to stories, whether on audible or read-alouds online. I’ve struggled talking to them about race and diversity, because as children, they’ve never “seen” color. We have friends from various cultures and backgrounds. They’ve had teachers and coaches of different races, and they’ve loved them all. I’ve always felt like I didn’t want to taint their pure view of the world, but through all of this I feel like I owe it to them, and to others to educate them about our nations history and teach them how to be inclusive of all people and races.
I’ve leaned into one of their greatest joys, reading, and have found some great books for children that promote inclusivity and teach them about different races and cultures.
I am including links to some of our favorite read alouds, as well as several stories that have helped start beautiful conversations with our children. I hope to continue to add to this list as we find more books that inspire conversations about race and celebrate diversity.
Online Read-Alouds:
First, is a book that we have listened to numerous times from Storyline Online. The Hula-Hoopin’ Queen is read by Oprah, and the illustrations are so fun! This is definitely a favorite in our house!
The next story we originally found through our local library, and fell in love with Trombone Shorty’s music! I love the inspirational story of the young Trombone Shorty and how he followed his dreams.
Rent Party Jazz is another story from Storyline Online. It is a great example of the times we are in now, where communities are coming together to help one another.
Follow the link to listen to Come On, Rain! read by the staff at the San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum. Follow SDCDM on Facebook for more story times that focus on amplifying black voices.
The Undefeated is a story of Black American heroes. Click here to view the reading from our local San Diego Library.
Look for these books at your local library or follow the link to purchase:
We are the Change – Words of Inspiration from Civil Rights Leaders
All Are Welcome – Celebrating inclusion through a story of a school where all are welcome.
The Other Side – a beautifully illustrated story of race and friendship – great way to start a dialogue with your children about race.
I am Enough – a book about loving who you are, respecting others, and being kind to one another.
