Five Books for Preschoolers that Celebrate Diversity

Our Early Childhood Education anti-bias curriculum promotes the value of diversity and multiculturalism. In our classrooms, children gradually understand and celebrate the differences of others through intentional play, stories and activities on a daily basis.We would like to share five children's books that we use at YWCA Minneapolis Children’s Center at Hubbs Center for Lifelong Learning. These books support our anti-bias curriculum and show the diversity of people through their stories and experiences, which help children learn the values of self-love and compassion for others.

“The Colors of Us” by Karen Katz

This book tells the story of a little girl who wants to paint a picture of herself with brown paint. She discovers that the color brown comes in many different shades. Through her eyes, we celebrate the differences and similarities that connect all people. Learn More 

“Whoever You Are” by Mem Fox

This book helps us to learn that every day all over the world, children are laughing, crying, playing, learning, eating and sleeping. They may not all look the same or speak the same language, but they are all alike. Learn More

“The Skin You Live In” by Michael Tyler

This picture book takes a cheerful look at human diversity by focusing on skin. Rhyming verses describe the many experiences that can be had in our skin. It talks about the skin you have fun in, run in, hop in, etc. The story promotes multiculturalism and self-esteem. Learn More

“All the Colors of the Earth” by Sheila Hamanaka

This story celebrates the skin colors of children and the colors of love. Not black, white, yellow or red, but roaring brown, whispering gold and tinkling pink. Learn More

“Bright Eyes, Brown Skin” by Cheryl Willis Hudson and Bernette G. Ford

This book tells the story of four African American children during a typical day at school. The story celebrates racial diversity and positive self-image and is all about feeling good about who you are. Learn MoreLearn More about YWCA Early Childhood Education