Self Awareness

The Way I Feel by Janan Cain

This book describes emotions with colorful illustrations and whimsical rhyming text. Some emotions in the book are happy, disappointed, scared and silly. This book helps children understand that emotions happen on their own and teaches them to recognize them in themselves and others. An art teacher can use this book to launch into a lesson on Expressionism, the movement in art history in which colors represented emotions. Being able to self-regulate and notice others’ emotions is a part of child development. Assigning colors to emotions can help children visually represent their feelings. Talking about emotions is also importance since some students find it harder to express themselves and/or may need more time to transition between settings and activities due to emotional or behavior differences.

I Am Enough by Grace Byers

I am enough follows a girl as she makes positive affirmations for those who lack self-esteem and self-acceptance. This book celebrates children for who they are and reinforces themes of acceptance and self-esteem.

Social Emotional Learning Journal

SEL journals have daily prompts that encourage students to focus on understanding their individual strengths and challenges. These prompts can be used to provide opportunities for individual reflection, allow for partner discussions, and whole group discussions about a variety of SEL skills. These discussions encourage students to develop a greater understanding and generalization of skills. There are many SEL journals available for purchase on Teachers Pay Teachers.

Why am I Me? by Paige Britt, Sean Qualls, & Selena Alko

Have you ever wondered why you are you? Or what it might feel like to be someone else? Someone taller, faster, smaller, smarter? Lighter, older, darker, bolder? Presented as a thoughtful, poetic exchange between two characters -- who don't realize they are thinking and asking the very same questions -- this beautiful celebration of our humanity and diversity invites readers of all ages to imagine a world where there is no you or me, only we. Speaks to building empathy and to celebrate rather than discriminate, Why Am I Me? helps foster a much-needed sense of connection, compassion, and love.

My Heart by Corinna Luyken

Some days your heart is a puddle or a fence to keep the world out. But some days it is wide open to the love that surrounds you. With lyrical text and breathtaking art, My Heart empowers all readers to listen to the guide within in this ode to love and self-acceptance.

Be Who You Are by Todd Parr

Be Who You Are by Todd Parr reminds kids that their unique traits are what make them so special. After reading, students will create a detailed drawing of themselves.  This book provides a wonderful opportunity to discuss identity and gender expression with young children. Students could listen to a book read aloud and discuss its meaning teaching children to accept and embrace the many ways classmates may choose to express who they are through clothing and hairstyles, free of gender norms. This offers an opportunity to build classroom community by giving students a chance to share and learn about each other’s differences. An activity could be to create a drawing that celebrates who they are and share their drawings – encouraging discussion about what is unique about them.

The Many Colors of Harpreet Singh by Supriya Kelkar

Harpreet Singh, a young Sikh boy, likes to express himself through wearing different colored patkas, a type of turban often worn by young boys. He wears red when he needs a burst of courage, yellow when he’s feeling sunny, and pink when he feels like celebrating. His mother explains that they will have to move, and he will go to a new school. He wears a blue patka when he is feeling nervous, and a gray one when he feels sad. He wears white when he wants to disappear. At his new school, he wears white every day until he makes a friend, who lifts his mood. It isn’t long before he is wearing his yellow patka again. Supriya Kelkar is an Indian American. Check out her About page on her website. The Sikh Coalition enthusiastically recommended this book for teachers to use in schools.

Simran Jeet Singh, who wrote the afterword, shared the photo at the right on Twitter. It says a lot about why you should bring this book into your classroom library. Singh says, “My nephew just got a copy of this book featuring a Sikh boy who looks just like him—and he’s totally enthralled… sharing our stories matter [sic] so much, especially for our kids.” Before reading this book, a teacher might ask students about their favorite colors. Why do they like them? How do they feel when they wear them? Do they wear different colors when they are experiencing different moods or feelings? In his afterword, Simran Jeet Singh shares the story of why some Sikhs wear turbans: they see it as an expression of equality. A teacher might share Singh’s story before reading the book. Some students may be able to relate to Harpreet’s predicament, even if they haven’t been the “new kid.”

 On one page, Harpreet is looking at Valentines from his classmates and feeling bad because his name is misspelled. It might be a good entry point for discussing microaggressions and/or why it’s so important to try hard to say and spell our friends’ names correctly. If you used this book near the beginning of the year, I could see a writing exercise in which students learn how to say and spell each other’s names.

It's Okay to Make Mistakes by Todd Parr

Todd Parr's bestselling books have reminded kids to embrace differences, to be thankful, to love one another, and to be themselves. It's Okay to Make Mistakes embraces life's happy accidents, the mistakes and mess-ups that can lead to self discovery. Todd Parr brings a timely theme to life with his signature bold, kid-friendly illustrations and a passion for making readers feel good about themselves, encouraging them to try new things, experiment, and dare to explore new paths. From coloring outside the lines and creating a unique piece of art to forgetting an umbrella but making a new friend, each page offers a kid-friendly take on the importance of taking chances, trying new things, and embracing life, mistakes and all.

I Am Every Good Thing by Derrick Barnes

The confident Black narrator of this book is proud of everything that makes him who he is. He's got big plans, and no doubt he'll see them through--as he's creative, adventurous, smart, funny, and a good friend. Sometimes he falls, but he always gets back up. And other times he's afraid, because he's so often misunderstood and called what he is not. So slow down and really look and listen, when somebody tells you--and shows you--who they are. There are superheroes in our midst!

Spork by Kyo Maclear and Isabelle Arsenault

His mum is a spoon. His dad is a fork. And he's a bit of both. He's Spork! Spork sticks out in the regimented world of the cutlery drawer. The spoons think he's too pointy, while the forks find him too round. He never gets chosen to be at the table at mealtimes until one day a very messy thing arrives in the kitchen who has never heard of cutlery customs. Will Spork finally find his place at the table? This "multi-cutlery" tale is a humorous and lively commentary on individuality and tolerance. Its high-spirited illustrations capture the experience and emotions of anyone who has ever wondered about their place in the world.

The Great Big Body Book by Mary Hoffman

Children are innately curious about their bodies. This book discusses the human body and the way that it will grow and change overtime. What makes this book inclusive is that it represents people of different races, abilities, and genders. Within the book it talks about gender and touches upon the idea of gender fluidity. Learning about the body is an important part of being a person. The most challenging part of teaching about bodies to young children is ensuring that they understand the diverse nature of the human body. The language and images educators show matters. This book shows a diverse perspective of bodies, abilities, races and genders to help expose children to the wide range of people they may see.

The Day You Begin, by Jacqueline Woodson

There are many reasons to feel different. Maybe it's how you look or talk, or where you're from; maybe it's what you eat, or something just as random. It's not easy to take those first steps into a place where nobody really knows you yet, but somehow you do it. Jacqueline Woodson's lyrical text and Rafael López's dazzling art reminds us that we all feel like outsiders sometimes-and how brave it is that we go forth anyway. And that sometimes, when we reach out and begin to share our stories, others will be happy to meet us halfway. The resource is a picture book that is an inclusive story that encourages children to find the beauty in their own lives and share it with the world. Each of the children in the story feels isolated and alone until they begin to share their stories and individual identities. It is a story that is a powerful ode to diversity and acceptance.

This book could be used as a resource for inclusivity. The story could be used at the beginning of the school year with students. While the teacher reads this book to the class, a discussion could be had around the clues of the characters’ identities. While the discussion was taking place, the teacher could take notes on chart paper of what was identified and discussed. Depending on the age of the students, a pre-made graphic organizer could be used by students on the characters Angelina and Rigoberto (sample below).  The organizer and discussion leads students to understanding that it was not until these two chargers began to tell their own stories that they were able to find connections to each other. In order for this learning and focus around inclusivity to transfer from this individual lesson, an anchor chart could be created for reference (sample below).This text provides a good model of thinking about the different aspects of who we are individually and how we are different such as: where we come from, our language, our accents, the color of our skin, texture of hair, etc.

You Are a Social Detective: Explaining Social Thinking to Kids by Michelle Garcia Winner

The social world is a big, complicated place where we are all social detectives as we observe, gather, and make sense of the clues in different social contexts (settings, situations, and the people in them) to figure out the hidden rules for expected behaviors, as well as to understand how we each feel and think about what others say and do in a situation.

Lila and the Crow by Gabrielle Grimard

Lila has just moved to a new town and can't wait to make friends at school. But on the first day, a boy points at her and shouts: "A crow! A crow! The new girl's hair is black like a crow!" The others whisper and laugh, and Lila's heart grows as heavy as a stone. The next day, Lila covers her hair. But this time, the boy points at her dark skin. When she covers her face, he mocks her dark eyes. Now every day at school, Lila hides under her turtleneck, dark glasses, and hat. And every day when she goes home, she sees a crow who seems to want to tell her something. Lila ignores the bird and even throws rocks at it, but it won't go away. Meanwhile, the great autumn festival is approaching. While the other kids prepare their costumes, Lila is sadder and lonelier than ever. At her lowest point of despair, a magical encounter with the crow opens Lila's eyes to the beauty of being different, and gives her the courage to proudly embrace her true self.

Identity Bags

This activity can be used at the beginning of the year to understand our own identities (and the identities of others) and how those identities shape our experiences and the world around us. This inclusive activity brings to light diversity, builds community, and brings to the forefront the recognition and celebration of differences. This resource is an activity that can be facilitated at any time throughout the school year. Ideally, this would be done at the beginning of the year when building culture and climate of the classroom. This resource (the activity) would be helpful in creating a safe and supportive learning environment. Ways to use this resource is to further anti-bias curriculum and support inclusion is by following the steps in the assignment/activity.

Mirror by Suzy Lee

Stunning in its simplicity and grace, Mirror is visual tour-de-force that requires no words to tell its universal tale. Author and illustrator Suzy Lee masterfully creates a world where a little girl explores and dances — at first cautiously, later exuberantly — with her reflection in the mirror. When discord between the girl and her reflection surfaces, Lee's unforgettable story provides a gentle reminder that our actions have consequences. A beautiful book sure to be embraced by the many fans of Wave, Suzy Lee's Mirror strengthens her growing reputation as one of the most exciting new authors to watch.

Bob the Artist by Marion Deuchars

Bob the bird is just like all his friends, apart from his skinny legs. When Bob is teased, he decides to try and change himself to fit in. His lack of self-esteem leaves him feeling deflated until he visits an art gallery. and gets inspired. Promotes a growth mindset, creativity, and self appreciation.

Exclamation Mark by Amy Krouse Rosenthal

He stood out here. He stood out there. He tried everything to be more like them. It's not easy being seen. Especially when you're NOT like everyone else. Especially when what sets you apart is YOU. Sometimes we squish ourselves to fit in. We shrink. Twist. Bend. Until -- ! -- a friend shows the way to endless possibilities. In this bold and highly visual book, an emphatic but misplaced exclamation point learns that being different can be very exciting! Period.

Identity Safe Classrooms: Places to Belong and Learn by Dorothy M. Steele and Becki Cohn-Vargas

The major themes of this book are:

• Child-centered teaching: listening for students’ voices, teaching for understanding, focus on cooperation, classroom autonomy.

• Cultivating diversity as a resource: using diversity  as a resource for teaching, high expectations and academic rigor, challenging curriculum.

• Classroom relationships: teacher warmth and availability to support learning, positive student relationships.

• Caring classrooms: teacher skill, emotional and physical comfort, attention to prosocial development.

This resource focuses on strategies that enable all students to feel safe in school and in classrooms.  This includes enabling students to see their identity as an asset, using diversity as a learning resource, forming relationships with the teacher and classmates, and developing a sense of belonging as well as empathy.  Teachers should use this resource to help create identity safe environments for their students.  This resource includes explanations of strategies as well as some examples within the text of approaches that can be used in classrooms.  This resource also includes reflective exercises that can be used by teachers, practical advice, and stories from teachers and their experiences. 

Stephanie's Ponytail by Robert Munsch

Everyone is copying Stephanie’s ponytail! No matter which way she wears it, the list of copycats keeps growing. But when Stephanie declares her next hair style, she tries to shake all of her followers loose.

The Three Questions by Jon J. Muth

Young Nikolai is searching for the answers to his three questions: When is the best time to do things? Who is the most important one? What is the right thing to do? But it is his own response to a stranger's cry for help that leads him directly to the answers he is looking for. This profound and inspiring book is about compassion and being engaged in each moment.

Through the Magic Mirror by Anthony Browne

Toby is fed up. Fed up with books, fed up with toys, fed up with everything. But when he walks through the magic mirror, things are amazingly different. Toby can hardly believe his eyes! Through the strange and surreal world, Toby begins to feel better about his situation at home.

Unicorn Thinks He's Pretty Great by Bob Shea

Ever since Unicorn moved into the neighborhood, Goat has been feeling out of sorts. Goat thought his bike was cool -- until he saw that Unicorn could fly to school! Goat made marshmallow squares that almost came out right, but Unicorn made it rain cupcakes! Unicorn is such a show-off, how can Goat compete? When Goat and Unicorn share a piece of pizza, Goat learns that being a unicorn might not be all it's cracked up to be. And when Unicorn shows his admiration for Goat, it looks like the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

You Might Find Yourself by Tai Snaith

You Might Find Yourself follows a small person’s journey as they navigate the world through their imagination. This charming and lovingly handcrafted picture book invites readers to examine notions of resilience and collaboration, while on the winding path that is life. From eating green beans with a king and a queen to playing a hologram guitar from the future, You Might Find Yourself encourages an exploration of empathy and compassion. In weird and wonderful ways, Tai Snaith unleashes the power of our imagination, and on a journey full of possibilities, all you need to do is imagine where you might find yourself.

Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andreae

Giraffes Can't Dance is a touching tale of Gerald the giraffe, who wants nothing more than to dance. With crooked knees and thin legs, it's harder for a giraffe than you would think. Gerald is finally able to dance to his own tune when he gets some encouraging words from an unlikely friend. With light-footed rhymes and high-stepping illustrations, this tale is gentle inspiration for every child with dreams of greatness.

Quick as a Cricket by Audrey Wood

A young boy describes himself as "loud as a lion," "quiet as a clam," "tough as a rhino," and "gentle as a lamb". Promotes individuality, self-esteem, and self-awareness.

Perfect Pigeons by Katherine Battersby

One plucky pigeon dares to fly against the flock in this brightly illustrated, laugh-out-loud picture book about embracing the things that make us different. A colorful flock of pigeons pride themselves on their perfect unity. All except one: a bespectacled pigeon who is happiest doing its own thing. While the flock all looks the same, this pigeon enjoys wearing cowboy boots. While the flock flies in perfect formation, this pigeon soars like a superhero. When the flock finally confronts their contrary friend, they learn a thing or two about true perfection—and that we don’t all have to be the same to belong together.

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Responsible Decision-Making

Is There Really a Human Race? by Jamie Lee Curtis & Laura Cornell

Is There Really a Human Race? Is all about relishing the journey and making good choices along the way—because how we live and how we love is how we learn to make the world a better place, one small step at a time. This book rhymes its way through looking closely at the idea of winners and losers, and helping each other. It has a really gentle way of teaching about advocacy and sticking up for people. It could launch a conversation about how if you are in a more privileged position you are able to use your position to help others.

A is for Activist by Innosanto Nagara

A is for Activist is an ABC board book written and illustrated for the next generation of progressives: families who want their kids to grow up in a space that is unapologetic about activism, environmental justice, civil rights, LGBTQ rights, and everything else that activists believe in and fight for. The alliteration, rhyming, and vibrant illustrations make the book exciting for children, while the issues it brings up resonate with their parents' values of community, equality, and justice. This engaging little book carries huge messages as it inspires hope for the future, and calls children to action while teaching them a love for books.

Let's Talk About Body Boundaries, Consent and Respect: Teach Children About Body Ownership, Respect, Feelings, Choices and Recognizing Bullying Behaviors by Jayneen Sanders

This book explores respecting your body and the body of others. It encourages children to take ownership of their body and explore the boundaries that they are comfortable with. The book contains a multitude of scenarios surrounding consent and body boundaries for children and adults to unpack together. Consent is a topic that schools often avoid because it is too “grown-up” for them to understand. Yet for young children learning about consent lays the ground work for those more “adult” conversations later. The challenge for young children is that they are so often overpowered in their day-to-day lives. Teaching them that they are in charge of their own bodies helps to empower them. When reading books about such important social-emotional concepts representation matters. Children need to feel seen to help build these connections.

What Do You Do With a Problem? by Kobi Yamada

From the same author and illustrator as the #1 nationally best-selling What Do You Do With an Idea? comes a new book to encourage you to look closely at problems and discover the possibilities they can hold. This is the story of a persistent problem and the child who isn't so sure what to make of it. The longer the problem is avoided, the bigger it seems to get. But when the child finally musters up the courage to face it, the problem turns out to be something quite different than it appeared. What Do You Do With a Problem? is a story for anyone, at any age, who has ever had a problem that they wished would go away. It's a story to inspire you to look closely at that problem and to find out why it's here. Because you might discover something amazing about your problem... and yourself.

No Means No! by Jayneen Sanders

In this book, Sanders explores consent and speaking up for yourself in situations that make them uncomfortable. Children will read about relatable examples of when they may or may not feel uncomfortable. Consent is a topic that schools often avoid because it is too “grown-up” for them to understand. Yet for young children learning about consent lays the ground work for those more “adult” conversations later. The challenge for young children is that they are so often overpowered in their day-to-day lives. Teaching them that they are in charge of their own bodies helps to empower them. When reading books about such important social-emotional concepts representation matters. Children need to feel seen to help build these connections.

Our Little Kitchen by Jillian Tamaki

Based on Tamaki’s experience volunteering at a small community kitchen that feeds the hungry, this book bursts with energy and is perfect for young do-gooders. In this lively, rousing picture book from Caldecott Honoree Jillian Tamaki, a crew of resourceful neighbors comes together to prepare a meal for their community. With a garden full of produce, a joyfully chaotic kitchen, and a friendly meal shared at the table, Our Little Kitchen is a celebration of full bellies and looking out for one another. Bonus materials include recipes and an author’s note about the volunteering experience that inspired the book.

A Day's Work by Eve Bunting

In this heartwarming story about family and multigenerational relationships, a Mexican-American boy and his grandfather, who struggles to speak English and find work, reconnect through gardening. Francisco, a young Mexican-American boy, doesn't know how to connect with his grandfather who doesn't doesn't speak English. When the opportunity to help his grandfather find a job comes along, Francisco lies by saying that his grandfather is a gardener. They pull out the plants instead of the weeds and learn the value of integrity, gardening, and each other along the way. This book promotes honesty, integrity, and responsible decision-making.

Click, Clack, Moo Cows That Type by Doreen Cronin

The storybook is about a farmer who is raising cows, chickens and ducks that can type. These farm animals are finding inequities that they would like solved, for example, the cows are cold and want heated blankets. The animals use a typewriter to tell the farmer about the things they would like to have to help satisfy them. The duck is the neutral animal that tries to fix the problems of the cows and chickens, but ends up finding something they want changed, as well.

This book can be used with young children to talk about the importance of voicing one’s wants/needs, as well as activism for equality among individuals. After reading this book, students can have a discussion about various times in which they felt as though something was unfair and brainstorm ways the situation could have been handled differently. Further discussions could revolve around a time in which the students recall their parents wanting them to do or wear something that they did not want to.

Shelter by Céline Claire

The animals are cozy and warm in their dens as a storm approaches. Two strangers arrive looking for shelter shelter, but one after another the neighbors all say no. As the snow begins to fall, the strangers know they will be fine. But the fox family’s shelter is failing due to the weight of the snow. Who will help? This beautifully told story illustrates the importance of community in times of need and is sure to launch important conversations.

Edwurd Fudwupper Fibbed Big by Berkeley Breathed

Fannie Fudwupper's big brother, Edwurd, spends his time cooking up big fibs full of phooey and letting them rip. But one day, Edwurd tells such a whopping lie that the army, the air force, and the dogcatcher are called to reverse the damage. This humorous story promotes responsible decision making.

Great Choice, Camille! by Stuart J. Murphy

Making choices can be tricky! This installment in the I See I Learn® visual learning series uses easy-to-follow diagrams and a warm, charming story to teach basic decision-making strategies to the youngest readers. Camille is excited to start a new project at school. She’s given two choices: she can build a kite or plant a vegetable. Making a decision is difficult for Camille. With the support of friends and her teacher, Camille soon learns to make thoughtful, timely choices. Part of the sixteen book I SEE I LEARN® series for happier, healthier, more confident children!

What Should I Do?: Making Good Decisions by John Burstein

Its very important for a child to learn how to make good decisions. In this informative new book, Slim Goodbody helps children learn the steps they should follow in making almost any decision: Stop, Think, Act, Review (STAR).

For You Are a Kenyan Child by Kelly Kunane

Imagine you live in a small Kenyan village, where the sun rises over tall trees filled with doves. You wake to the sound of a rooster's crow, instead of an alarm clock and the school bus. Your afternoon snack is a tasty bug plucked from the sky, instead of an apple. And rather than kicking a soccer ball across a field, you kick a homemade ball of rags down a dusty road. But despite this, things aren't that different for a Kenyan child than they would be for an American kid, are they? With so much going on around you, it's just as easy to forget what your mama asked you to do!

A Chair for My Mother by Vera B. Williams

After a fire destroys their home and possessions, Rosa, her mother, and her grandmother save their money to buy a big comfortable chair that they can all enjoy. This story teaches readers lessons in hard work, empathy and appreciation throughout the story. The pages of this book are filled with bright, beautifully crafted illustrations, outlined by frames that connect one page to the next. It promotes community, generosity, responsible decision-making, and perseverance.

Here Comes the Garbage Barge! by Jonah Winter

Teaching environmental awareness and responsible decision making has become a national priority, and this hilarious book (subtly) drives home the message that we can’t produce unlimited trash without consequences.

Hello Mr World by Michael Foreman

A topical picture book about the effects of climate change, ideal for very young children. In this topical picture book, Michael Foreman – twice winner of the Kate Greenaway Medal and described as "the greatest illustrator-storyteller of his time" by Michael Morpurgo – brilliantly shows what climate change is doing to our world and inspires us all to make a difference. Mr World doesn’t feel well. He’s hot and sweaty and finding it hard to breathe. What will the doctors find when they examine their poor patient? This book promotes responsible decision making.

The Girl and the Bicycle by Mark Pett

A touching wordless picture book about a little girl, a shiny bicycle, and the meaning of persistence—with an unexpected payoff. A little girl sees a shiny new bicycle in the shop window. She hurries home to see if she has enough money in her piggy bank, but when she comes up short, she knocks on the doors of her neighbors, hoping to do their yardwork. They all turn her away except for a kindly old woman. The woman and the girl work through the seasons, side by side. They form a tender friendship. When the weather warms, the girl finally has enough money for the bicycle. She runs back to the store, but the bicycle is gone! What happens next shows the reward of hard work and the true meaning of generosity. Wordless, timeless, and classic, The Girl and the Bicycle carries a message of selflessness and sweet surprises and makes an ideal gift for graduations and other special occasions.

The Colour Thief by Gabriel Alborozo

Zot lives in a world without color - no green grass, no blue sky, no yellow sun and no red flowers. From his lonely mountaintop, he gazes at Earth, sparkling with brilliant color, and thinks it must be a very happy place. He sets off to steal some of that happiness for himself. This book promotes responsible decision making skills.

I Want my Hat Back by Jon Klassen

The bear’s hat is gone, and he wants it back. Patiently and politely, he asks the animals he comes across, one by one, whether they have seen it. Each animal says no, some more elaborately than others. But just as the bear begins to despond, a deer comes by and asks a simple question that sparks the bear’s memory and renews his search with a vengeance. Told completely in dialogue, this delicious take on the classic repetitive tale plays out in sly illustrations laced with visual humor — and winks at the reader with a wry irreverence that will have kids of all ages thrilled to be in on the joke. This book promotes responsible decision making, honesty, and integrity.

Home by Jeannie Baker

Little by little, baby Tracy grows. She and her neighbors begin to rescue their street. Together, children and adults plant grass and trees and bushes in the empty spaces. They paint murals over old graffiti. They stop the cars. Everything begins to blossom. In Jeannie Baker's striking, natural collages, an urban community reclaims its land. A drab city street becomes a living, thriving neighborhood -- a place to call home.

The Herd Boy by Niki Daly

Malusi is a herd boy. It is a big job for a small boy, yet he does it well, no matter the danger. But he also dreams of being more than a herd boy someday: Malusi wants to be president. This simple but poignant story explores the idea that many great leaders have come from humble beginnings. Perhaps what gives someone the strength and integrity to lead well isn't so different from what it takes to be a good herd boy.

Peppe the Lamplighter by Elisa Bartone

This is the story of Peppe, who becomes a lamplighter to help support his immigrant family in turn-of-the-century New York City, despite his papa's disapproval. Peppe's family is very poor, and though he is just a boy he needs to find work. Being a lamplighter is not the job his father had dreamed of for Peppe, but when Peppe's job helps save his little sister, he earns the respect of his entire family.

Tsunami! by Kimiko Kajikawa

Ojiisan, the oldest and wealthiest man in the village, doesn't join the others at the rice ceremony. Instead he watches from his balcony. He feels something is coming; something he can't describe. When he sees the monster wave pulling away from the beach, he knows. Tsunami! But the villagers below can't see the danger. Will Ojiisan risk everything he has to save them? Can he? Illustrated in stunning collage by Caldecott winner Ed Young, here is the unforgettable story of how one man's simple sacrifice saved hundreds of lives. An extraordinary celebration of both the power of nature and the power each of us holds within.

The Grudge Keeper by Mara Rockliff

No one in the town of Bonnyripple ever kept a grudge. No one, that is, except old Cornelius, the Grudge Keeper. The townspeople of Bonnyripple count on Cornelius to file away their tiffs and huffs, squabbles and snits. But when a storm flings the people together and their grudges to the wind, will the Grudge Keeper be out of a job?

Guttersnipe by Jane Cutler

Early in the twentieth century, ten-year-old Ben and his family live in the poorest part of their city with other Jewish immigrants. There is never enough money to make ends meet, so Ben, determined to do his part, lands a job delivering hat linings to a hat factory after school. He sets out on his boss's bicycle feeling strong and free, and has a grand time until, on his way up Hill Street, he gets a harsh comeuppance, one that hurts his body and threatens to destroy his dreams as well. Based on the experiences of the author's father and illustrated in Emily Arnold McCully's signature style, this book celebrates a boy who nearly loses hope, but then learns that the future shines bright and full of second chances.

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Social Awareness

Be Kind by Pat Zietlow Miller

When Tanisha spills grape juice all over her new dress, her classmate wants to make her feel better, wondering: What does it mean to be kind? From asking the new girl to play to standing up for someone being bullied, this moving story explores what kindness is, and how any act, big or small, can make a difference―or at least help a friend.

I Am Human: A Book of Empathy by Susan Verde

Being human means we are full of possibility. We learn, we dream, we wonder at the world around us. But we also make mistakes and can feel fearful or sad. I Am Human affirms that we can make good choices by acting with compassion and having empathy for others and ourselves. When we find common ground, we can feel connected to the great world around us and mindfully strive to be our best selves.

I Am Love: A Book of Compassion by Susan Verde

Love means showing kindness, living with gratitude, and taking care of our minds and bodies. Letting our hearts lead the way can help move us closer to a better world. Grounded in mindfulness and wellness, I Am Love asks readers to look inward when they feel afraid, angry, hurt, or sad. When a storm is brewing inside us and the skies grow dark, the transformative power of love lets the light back in.

Stand in My Shoes: Kids Learning About Empathy by Bob Sornson

When Emily asks her big sister what the word empathy means, she discovers an answer that will change how she looks at people. Stand in My Shoes shows kids how easy it is to develop empathy toward those around them. Empathy is the ability to notice what other people feel. Empathy is the foundation for all social skills and personal relationships, which make our lives richer and more beautiful. This book teaches young children the value of noticing how other people feel. We're hoping that many parents read it along with their children.

Bouquet of Flowers

Teachers create a bright, colorful bouquet of flowers with the help of the class and lead them in a discussion about differences and similarities of each flower. Separately, each flower has distinct features that make them special. Together, the bouquet is beautiful because each flower brings something different to the final product. Teachers can begin the conversation by asking students to examine each separate flower. What are some things that they notice about each flower- their shape, their color, their texture, their smell? What do flowers need to survive and thrive? Extend this conversation into a discussion about how everyone in the classroom is different- we come in different shapes, sizes, colors, etc. We like different things, and we are good at different things. We are each like our own flower. What do we need in order to survive and thrive? With the help of the students, teachers can put the flowers together into a vase so it makes a beautiful bouquet. How is this like the class? Isn’t the class more beautiful because of each and every student in it? In extension, isn’t a community more beautiful when it is more diverse? What are some things that students have in common with their neighbors or other people they encounter on a daily basis? What are some things that are different?

Adapted from https://carrotsareorange.com/anti-biasactivity-preschoolers/

The New Kid in Class by Kaitlin Cyca and Monita K. Bell

This short story published by Teaching Tolerance examines the early relationship with a new student to class. The content of this story utilizes empathy as a building block towards understanding and acceptance. Empathy is an important tool for students to learn and practice. The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person is integral in developing well rounded students. Empathy provides avenues to combating bias that exists in society. In the classroom the teacher could utilize this story as an introduction to empathy and the need for this skill. As this short story is geared for grades 3-5, the teacher can reasonably assume that student have already had exposure to empathy and anti-bias instruction. This article hones in on bias and fear that can exist with new students in the class, as well as interacting with individuals beyond the classroom. After reading the story, the teacher should follow guided questions, discussion and potential application of empathy that students can act on. Guided questions include identifying textual evidence on the experiences of the two main characters, as well as personal action. “If there was a new student in class, how would you want them to feel?”

Lovely Jess Hong

Big, small, curly, straight, loud, quiet, smooth, wrinkly. Lovely explores a world of differences that all add up to the same thing: we are all lovely! “What is lovely?” asks newcomer Hong at the outset of a book that celebrates seeing the beauty in everyone. She answers her own question by introducing a cavalcade of individuals young and old, with an emphasis on individual. “Lovely is different,” she writes as a girl with heterochromia looks at herself in the mirror. A young white woman in a goth ensemble represents “black,” while a brown-skinned woman with flowing white hair and a garland of flowers signifies “white.” Other opposite pairs include “soft” (a baby clutching a stuffed bear) and “sharp” (an elderly woman with lavender hair, a nose ring, and a spike-covered leather jacket), and spreads featuring arms and legs showcase bodies with tattoos, freckles, vitiligo, and prosthetic limbs. Hong’s digital cartooning is clean and bright, and her portraits casually reflect a diversity of ages, skin colors, abilities, occupations, and family types; a mixed-race gay couple stands opposite a brown-skinned woman carrying her son on her shoulders. It’s easy to see beauty in people simply being themselves in these pages, a clear, direct message that readers can carry into their lives.

The Kindness Quilt by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace

Minna and her classmates have been asked by their teacher, Mrs. Bloom, to work on a Kindness Project. Mrs. Bloom wants them to do and draw and share an act of kindness. Minna and her family do lots of kind things, but Minna can’t decide which one is right for her project. Then she starts writing and drawing and cutting—and an idea for a paper quilt picturing many acts of kindness begins to take shape!

It’s Okay to be Different by Todd Parr

This book focuses on celebrating the differences among us. Children are taught that it is okay to need help, to be different, and to talk about feelings. It provides an entry point for students to learn that differences both external and internal are to be accepted and celebrated. Additionally, this book provides the message that looking and asking for help and support is something that all people need. Ultimately, this book is an excellent resource for understanding differences and teaching tolerance in the classroom. Teaching tolerance indicates that this book is excellent for helping students understand the terms diversity, difference, and community.

Neither by Airlie Anderson

Teachers can use the book Neither to discuss a variety of topics related to diversity, acceptance, empathy, and inclusion. The character of Neither lived in a binary world where creatures were either this or that. Neither did not fit into this binary world because it was both. This book can easily be connected to discussions about identity and diversity in gender, race, and ability. Teachers can use this book as a resource to teach students about gender. For many people, gender is still thought of as binary: male and female. Many people including children find themselves struggling with the concept of gender as binary. Neither is a great example of how the world is not binary. Neither can serve as a concrete example to help children understand the concept such as gender identity and the gender spectrum by helping them to see how this creature does not fit into a binary category because it encompasses characteristics of multiple groups. It helps children realize and discuss how there are more than two choices.

Teachers can use Neither as a resource to teach students about race. Society still has people check off boxes to identify their race. Many people do not fit into one box or category and are multiracial. Children of multiracial backgrounds can relate to the character of Neither by not exactly fitting into one category and having characteristics of multiple categories. Teachers can also use this book as a resource to teach students about ability. The character of Neither was not able to do all of the things that its peers could do. While it was unable to hop like a bunny, it was able to do something that bunnies could not do: fly. Teachers can use this book as a way to teach students that everyone has different abilities and that everyone is unique and talented in their own way. While this book is a great resource for young children, teachers can continue to use it as a resource for older children as a way to introduce concepts related to gender, race, and ability as well as a resource for teaching diversity, acceptance, empathy, and inclusion of others.

The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig

A gentle story that teaches how small acts of kindness can help children feel included and allow them to flourish, from esteemed author and speaker Trudy Ludwig and acclaimed illustrator Patrice Barton. A simple act of kindness can transform an invisible boy into a friend. Meet Brian, the invisible boy. Nobody in class ever seems to notice him or think to include him in their group, game, or birthday party . . . until, that is, a new kid comes to class. When Justin, the new boy, arrives, Brian is the first to make him feel welcome. And when Brian and Justin team up to work on a class project together, Brian finds a way to shine. Any parent, teacher, or counselor looking for material that sensitively addresses the needs of quieter children will find The Invisible Boy a valuable and important resource. Includes a discussion guide and resources for further reading.

Wonder by R. J. Palacio

August Pullman was born with a facial difference that, up until now, has prevented him from going to a mainstream school. Homeschooled all his life, August heads to public school for fifth grade and he is not the only one changed by the experience, something we learn about first-hand through the narratives of those who orbit his world. August’s internal dialogue and interactions with students and family ring true, and though remarkably courageous he comes across as a sweet, funny boy who wants the same things others want: friendship, understanding, and the freedom to be himself. Starting 5th grade at Beecher Prep, he wants nothing more than to be treated as an ordinary kid—but his new classmates can’t get past Auggie’s extraordinary face. This book can be used to teach about empathy and kindness.

We're All Wonders by R. J. Palacio

The unforgettable bestseller Wonder, now a major motion picture, has inspired a nationwide movement to Choose Kind. Now parents and educators can introduce the importance of choosing kind to younger readers with this gorgeous picture book, featuring Auggie and Daisy on an original adventure, written and illustrated by R. J. Palacio.

Over 8 million people have fallen in love with Wonder and have joined the movement to Choose Kind. Now younger readers can meet Auggie Pullman, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face, and his beloved dog, Daisy. Countless fans have asked R. J. Palacio to write a book for younger readers. With We’re All Wonders, she makes her picture-book debut as both author and artist, with a spare, powerful text and striking, richly imagined illustrations. Palacio shows readers what it’s like to live in Auggie’s world—a world in which he feels like any other kid, but he’s not always seen that way. We’re All Wonders may be Auggie’s story, but it taps into every child’s longing to belong, and to be seen for who they truly are. It’s the perfect way for families and educators to talk about empathy and kindness with young children.

Whoever You Are by Mem Fox

This picture book illustrates children all over the world learning in different ways and living in different settings and in different languages. Their differences are visible, but their hearts, smiles, laughs, and hurts are the same showing how their differences are actually similarities. Children’s skin tones and cultural and linguistic backgrounds are recognized and honored in this book. Readers are reminded that when they are grown, they still may be different from others, but pain, joy and love are all the same no matter what. This book is an excellent way for an art teacher to launch a lesson on future self-portraits, where children could see themselves represented in this book and envision themselves as grown adults each in different professions and/or settings.

Windows by Julia Denos

Walking his dog at dusk, one boy catches glimpses of the lives around him in this lovely ode to autumn evenings, exploring your neighborhood, and coming home. Before your city goes to sleep, you might head out for a walk, your dog at your side as you go out the door and into the almost-night. Anything can happen on such a walk: you might pass a cat, or a friend, or even an early raccoon. And as you go down your street and around the corner, the windows around you light up one by one until you are walking through a maze of paper lanterns, each one granting you a brief, glowing snapshot of your neighbors as families come together and folks settle in for the night. With a setting that feels both specific and universal and a story full of homages to The Snowy Day, Julia Denos and E. B. Goodale have created a singular book — at once about the idea of home and the magic of curiosity, but also about how a sense of safety and belonging is something to which every child is entitled.

What is Given from the Heart by Patricia C. Mckissack

"Misery loves company," Mama says to James Otis. It's been a rough couple of months for them, but Mama says as long as they have their health and strength, they're blessed. One Sunday before Valentine's Day, Reverend Dennis makes an announcement during the service-- the Temples have lost everything in a fire, and the church is collecting anything that might be useful to them. James thinks hard about what he can add to the Temple's "love box," but what does he have worth giving? With her extraordinary gift for storytelling, McKissack--with stunning illustrations by Harrison--delivers a touching, powerful tale of compassion and reminds us all that what is given from the heart, reaches the heart.

The Sad Little Fact by Jonah Winter

There once was a fact who could not lie. But no one believed him. When the Authorities lock the sad little fact away, along with other facts, the world goes dark. But facts are stubborn things. With the help of a few skillful fact finders, they make a daring escape and bring truth back to brighten the world. Because after all, "a fact is a fact" and that's that!

Should I Share My Ice Cream? by Mo Williams

In Should I Share My Ice Cream? Gerald has a big decision to make. But will he make it in time? Using vocabulary that is perfect for beginning readers (and vetted by an early-learning specialist), Mo Willems has crafted a funny story about the challenges of doing the right thing.

The Colour Thief: A family's story of depression by Andrew Fusek Peters

The Colour Thief is a simple, heart-warming tale which helps to open up the conversations around depression and to support young children whose families have been affected. We follow a young boy who loves spending time with his dad, doing fun things together. When his father becomes sad and distant, he doesn't understand and believes he has done something to make his dad so, despite being told otherwise. Time passes and his father begins to get happier again and they have fun together like before. Narrated from the child's perspective and illustrated with beautiful pictures by the award-winning artist Karin Littlewood, this is the perfect book to read with children aged 7-9 years old who are trying to understand the cause and effects of depression, and reassure them that depression passes and their parents are not lost to them.

'It's crucial kids learn about depression; that it's nothing to feel ashamed about and they are not alone - one fourth of the world knows what it feels like. It's going to be them that break the stigma, not us.' Ruby Wax

We’re Different, We’re the Same by Bobbi Kates

Who better than Sesame Street to teach us that we may all look different on the outside—but it's important to remember that deep down, we are all very much alike. We all have the same needs, desires, and feelings. Elmo and his Sesame Street friends help teach toddlers and the adults in their lives that everyone is the same on the inside, and it's our differences that make this wonderful world, which is home to us all, an interesting—and special—place. This enduring, colorful, and charmingly illustrated book offers an easy, enjoyable way to learn about differences—and what truly matters. It is an engaging read for toddlers and adults alike.

Sitti's Secrets by Naomi Shihab Nye

Mona’s grandmother, her Sitti, lives in a small Palestinian village on the other side of the earth. Once, Mona went to visit her. The couldn’t speak each other’s language, so they made up their own. They learned about each other’s worlds, and they discovered each other’s secrets. Then it was time for Mona to go back home, back to the other side of the earth. But even though there were millions of miles and millions of people between them, they remained true neighbors forever.

The Lonely Mailman by Susanna Isern

Each day, the old mailman faithfully delivers special letters to the forest animals. But the mailman has never received any letters of his own. Then one day everything changes. This touching story of friendship and love will delight readers and letter writers of all ages.

The Way of the Ninja by David Bruins

The creators of The Legend of Ninja Cowboy Bear return with a high-energy story about friendship. This time, the daring ninja learns that the greatest thrills and the best adventures are the ones we share. The ninja's playtime games are too rough-and-tumble for his friends the cowboy and the bear. The ninja isn't interested in his friends' games -- and playing all by himself isn't much fun. Can the rambunctious ninja ever meet his friends halfway? Children will easily relate to the lesson about mutual respect embedded in a story about three different but nonetheless close friends.

Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood

On PBS for 31 seasons, Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood spoke directly with the viewer, by welcoming them directly into his work of exploration, learning, acceptance of diversity, empathy and community. Each episode provides multiple opportunities for young viewers to think and explore the world around them. As noted, Ms. Roger’s neighborhood creates connections between young viewers and the world around them. Singular episodes focus on various personal and societal issues that children are experiencing. Any episode could be used as a learning tool for both individual and groups of children, as Mr. Rogers always addressed difficult issues. The cast of the show was considerably diverse, with Mr. Rogers creating episodes to explore race and racism. Additionally, Mr. Rogers focused on how children experience anger, and how to deal with anger.

Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes

In this story, a young mouse is proud of her name, Chrysanthemum. When she gets to school, students make fun of her name throughout the dat. She continues to be made fun of until the music teacher shares her name with the class, Delphinium. This book is useful in a number of different ways, but most especially for teaching student’s acceptance and understanding for the characteristics that make each person unique. In this story, the protagonist loves her name, but is made to feel ashamed of this unique name. Students tease her throughout the day, which impacts her outlook. In the classroom the teacher should read this aloud to the class. During the reading, each student should have a paper heart that the wrinkle each time Chrysanthemum is teased, and smoothed out each time someone does something kind to her. The message is that hurtful words have a lasting impact, even beyond apologies. Students should learn to consider kindness and an embracing spirt of inclusivity in their classroom and life.

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