Tips for Reading Diverse Children’s Books
Many of our RAN programs utilize diverse children's books for providing opportunities to talk about diverse families, gender, race, and standing up against unfairness with children. Here are some tips for reading diverse children's books with kids!
Black History Month Activity
For Black History Month, People B4 Policy, Rainbow Action Network, First 5 Napa Network, and Teens Connect hosted a virtual (4th Annual) Napa Valley Black History Month Celebration. Rainbow Action
Martin Luther King Jr Story Time and Activity Packet
January 18 – January 18, 2021
Join Rainbow Action Network for a virtual story time geared towards children 3-7 years old on Martin Luther King Jr Day. We will read aloud children’s books and guide discussion
How to Use LGBTQ and Gender Inclusive Language with Children
Shifting to LGBTQ and gender-inclusive language respects and acknowledges the identities and families of all children and removes assumptions. Let's Change the Language.
How to Talk about LGBTQ Pride Month with Your Child
1.Talk about universal values and your family’s values. 2. Keep it simple. 3. Have an ongoing conversation about diversity, difference, and discrimination rather than one “big talk”. 4. Kids love the colors of the flag. Talk to them about the meaning of the colors.
LGBTQ Inclusive Books with Characters of Color
We recommend the following LGBTQ inclusive books that include character of color. In order to work towards equity and justice, parents and educators should be talking with children as early as possible about race, gender, diverse families, and LGBTQ people. These books are meant to help parents take action or "protest" by having conversations with their children.
Rainbow: A First Book of Pride by Michael Genhart
A great book for young children to introduce them to the meaning of the colors on the rainbow flag.
The Family Book by Todd Parr
This book – in typical Todd Parr illustrations and fashion – celebrates many different types of families, including two mom families, two dad families, families with stepparents, families who adopt children, families with one parent, etc.
Not Quite Narwhal by Jessie Sima
This story is full of love, acceptance, and rainbows. It’s a celebration of being different. Kelp was born in the sea with narwhals. But one day, he realizes he’s actually a unicorn. He isn’t sure if he belongs with the narwhals or the unicorns but ultimately realizes he doesn’t have to decide. They all accept and love Kelp for who he is.
And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell
This may be the original LGBTQ inclusive book. A true story about two male penguins who partner, adopt an egg, and raise their baby – Tango – together. A favorite of any preschooler who hears it!