Reading sparks children’s imagination and helps them make sense of the world. Representation in children’s literature not only helps students from marginalized groups feel seen and appreciated but also diverse literature also illuminates different cultures and ways of life. Additionally, when kids see themselves or people who look like them positively represented as creative thinkers, world leaders, and problem solvers, they begin to see themselves in the same way.
Children’s picture books provide one of the most powerful forms of representation. Kids look to parents, teachers and media (i.e. books) for evidence that they are lovable, smart, capable, and worthy of being seen. When children don't see themselves or others represented in the literature that we read, we silently communicate that their stories are not worthy. Positive representation, on the other hand, can make an enormous difference in dispelling stereotypes and building a shared sense of community. Books also become a way to teach history and supplement the often limited narratives provided in textbooks. They reveal unsung heroes and stories of those whose voices are typically not heard.
These children’s books will have a huge impact on my students. I plan to use them as read aloud that can ignite rich discussions, enable true cross-curricular learning opportunities, and help my students develop a love of reading by filling our classroom library will high-quality, engaging and interesting books that they will love to read.
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Reading sparks children’s imagination and helps them make sense of the world. Representation in children’s literature not only helps students from marginalized groups feel seen and appreciated but also diverse literature also illuminates different cultures and ways of life. Additionally, when kids see themselves or people who look like them positively represented as creative thinkers, world leaders, and problem solvers, they begin to see themselves in the same way.
Children’s picture books provide one of the most powerful forms of representation. Kids look to parents, teachers and media (i.e. books) for evidence that they are lovable, smart, capable, and worthy of being seen. When children don't see themselves or others represented in the literature that we read, we silently communicate that their stories are not worthy. Positive representation, on the other hand, can make an enormous difference in dispelling stereotypes and building a shared sense of community. Books also become a way to teach history and supplement the often limited narratives provided in textbooks. They reveal unsung heroes and stories of those whose voices are typically not heard.
These children’s books will have a huge impact on my students. I plan to use them as read aloud that can ignite rich discussions, enable true cross-curricular learning opportunities, and help my students develop a love of reading by filling our classroom library will high-quality, engaging and interesting books that they will love to read.
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