Reflecting Classroom Diversity Through Children’s Literature

Books about diverse families teach young children to appreciate—and celebrate—differences.

This resource features age-appropriate books to read with children about different kinds of family structures. Use the books as inspiration to create an early childhood setting that is welcoming for all LGBTQIA2S+ children and families. LGBTQIA2S+ is an acronym for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual, two-spirit, or additional sexual orientations and gender identities that are not heterosexual or cisgender.

This website is a general guide to children’s books and websites that showcase and celebrate diverse cultures and ethnicities and multicultural families, focusing on picture books.

This website includes recommended books for young children, teachers, and parents on anti-bias themes and topics. 

Children’s books teach children about who is important, who matters, and who is even visible. Consequently, carefully choosing quality children’s books is an indispensable educational and child-rearing task. This website offers a guide for selecting anti-bias children’s books.

There are a number of ways early childhood educators can approach race in the classroom. These practices are known as race-related teaching practices (RRTPs). This article addresses the need for these practices by offering categories for thinking about RRTPs and suggesting ways teachers can use children’s literature to welcome related conversations.

It is never too early to ensure that young children have access to a wide range of diverse books. This website provides resources for selecting books to share with young children.