Does your home or classroom library reflect the diversity of our world?
Children internalize messages about themselves and others from a very young age. Their brains are wired to categorize things somewhat rigidly, which can often result in misconceptions. (“Only boys can be firefighters!”) Diverse and inclusive books encourage both positive self-image and acceptance of differences in others. But how can you know if the books you choose are really sending the right messages? Here are some helpful guidelines:
1. First and foremost, it should be a good book. Is it a good story or, in the case of nonfiction, is it interesting and age-appropriate? Are the illustrations artistic and inviting?
2. Seek out diverse human characters. Books with animal characters certainly have their place, but make sure you have books in your collection that feature diverse human characters too. (Download our quiz to learn about many types of diversity!)
3. Look out for stereotypes. Does the book contain stereotypes in either the language or illustrations? (Not sure if characters are stereotypical? Do some research on stereotypes that have historically been associated with a particular culture or group of people.)
4. Is it a “window” or a “mirror”? Both are important! Books can serve as windows through which children can learn about others, and also as mirrors in which they see their own lives reflected. Will children learn about others or see themselves in the book?
5. Make sure the information is accurate. If the book talks explicitly about a country, culture, or group of people, it should be specific and precise in its presentation. For instance, a book about Native American characters should include details about the particular tribe or tribes being represented, as opposed to lumping all Native American people or customs into one category.
6. Check to see if it’s relatable. Books that depict diverse characters doing everyday things help children build empathy by showing that we all share things in common.
7. Think about the author’s and illustrator’s qualifications. Do the author and / or illustrator come from the culture or group they are depicting? If not, what qualifies them to create this book sensitively, accurately and without bias?
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