So much going on in the world right now. I am infuriated by the way protesters are being treated, and inspired by the dedication of particularly the young people to make a change. In my Kindergarten class we don't shy away from big ideas-in fact, I encourage those discussions in my class often. This past year we talked about themes of social justice and read about famous people like Rosa Parks and Harriet Tubman. And those are important discussions.
However, I also think it's important to include diverse titles in your classroom libraries and read-alouds that portray diverse families doing every day regular things as well. The past few years we are thankfully seeing more and more books featuring more diverse characters. It's important for our students to see themselves in the books we share-not just protesters and slaves.
Here are some of my favorites:
A new baby is expected and she isn't sure she wants a sibling.
An adorable story about how the library works.
A great story when you are using the theme of families.
A common game of peek-a-boo-the students often relate to playing with their baby siblings.
A self explanatory title-I love to share this one the first week of school
Jabari is nervous about jumping off the diving board and dad is very understanding.
Ezra Jack Keats wrote a number of books but this one is my favorite.
Also about a new brother that is not entirely welcomed at first. He messes up the toys and insists on watching his own shows. But his brother soon warms up to him.
