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Written by Julie Nguyen

It’s never too early to teach children about diversity – family, cultural, gender, sexual, language – and luckily there are many children’s books that help introduce these topics to them. It’s also important to ensure that your child feels represented and that their families are represented.

Families, Families, Families by Suzanne and Max Lang

Families, Families, Families is a great book to introduce your child to diversity in families. Each page features a family portrait of many shapes and sizes – a spin on the traditional nuclear family portrait. Some children have two dads, some have one parent, and some live with their grandparents. Your child will have so much fun following the hilarious animals and reading along the rhymes. Most importantly, they will learn that all that matters is that you love each other.

Mommy, Mama, and Me by Lesléa Newman

Daddy, Dada, and Me by Lesléa Newman

Both these books were written by Lesléa Newman, an American author who is also a member of the LGBT+ community. They each feature same-sex parents spending the day with their toddler and is narrated by the toddler using rhyme. Your child will learn that no matter what their family looks like, there is no difference to how their parents love them.

Pink is for Boys by Robb Pearlman

This book sends a powerful message that we can express ourselves through colour however we like, regardless of our gender. It encourages children to pursue anything they are passion about and helps break gender stereotypes. It also features vibrant illustrations and follows a diverse group of fun characters, which you child will definitely enjoy.

Happy in Our Skin by Fran Manushkin

This is a great book to introduce your child to the diversity of skin colours, races, families, abilities and cultures that exist in the world around them. It has very detailed, engaging illustrations and feature rhymes that will sure to get your child reading along. Your child will learn to see the beauty of inclusivity, and the uniqueness in themselves and others.

Say Hello! by Rachel Isadora

Diversity of different cultures and ethnicities wouldn’t be complete without the celebration of different languages. This book follows Carmelita and her dog as they walk around the neighbourhood, meeting people of a variety of cultures and ethnicities and learning how to say ‘hello’ in their languages. It’s a fun way to show your child the different ways of saying hello.

What do you guys think about these books? Have you read them or are you thinking of reading them to your child? What other book recommendations would you like to see next?