A sense of belonging is very important to children's self-confidence and many of them fear standing out from the crowd. But in an increasingly diverse world, differences abound. Books can be great tools for teaching kids how to embrace these differences--and for showing that other children may not be as different as they appear. These beautifully illustrated picture books will inspire children to accept and embrace their differences:
- Am I a Color Too? (Written by Heidi Cole & Nancy Vogl; Illustrated by Gerald Purnell): A young interracial boy examines racial differences and discovers that regardless of other people's labels, he's "just a person, a person just like you."
- We Share One World (Written by Jane Hoffelt; Illustrated by Marty Husted): As a boy travels around the world, visiting different countries and cultures, he realizes that we all share the same sun, moon, and world.
- Little Squarehead (Written by Peggy O'Neill; Illustrated by Denise Freeman): A sad little girl is taunted and teased because of the odd shape of her head, but her world changes when she discovers courage, confidence, and compassion.
- Dreams to Grow On (Written by Christine Hurley Deriso; Illustrated by Matthew Archamault): A young girl explores the possible careers she might follow when she grows up--from doctor to sea captain, and everything in between.
