DeAnna Taylor
\n\u00a0|\u00a0 Studio Gannett<\/p>\n
As parents, it may feel overwhelming when young learners come to you with tough questions, especially those about differences they notice in themselves or others.<\/p>\n
A 2020 study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology<\/a> revealed many adults often delay conversations with children about differences \u2014 especially race \u2014 because they underestimate a child\u2019s ability to process the information. However, the same study found that children notice differences in people as early as infancy. And those curiosities only heighten as they grow, especially once they reach school-age.<\/p>\n To alleviate some of that pressure, many authors are now focused on writing books that address various issues in ways that children can better understand and process. Mom of a toddler Maya L\u00ea of the popular website and social media page, MaiStoryBook and Mai Story Book Library, has dedicated her time to providing recommendations for parents<\/a> to use as a resource while also getting their children equally excited about reading in general.<\/p>\n \u201cBooks are powerful mirrors and windows \u2014 mirrors that help children see themselves reflected, and windows that open their eyes to the lives and experiences of others,\u201d says L\u00ea. \u201cBy seeing themselves and others reflected in stories, kids learn to celebrate differences, ask questions with kindness and grow into more empathetic, open-hearted and open-minded individuals.\u201d<\/p>\n L\u00ea, who is Vietnamese American and an elementary school teacher, believes in the power of books to create spaces for authentic connection and conversation<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u201cThrough illustrations and storylines that introduce characters who look, speak and\/or live differently, these books can open the door to conversations about race, ability, culture and identity <\/a>in ways young minds can grasp,\u201d she says. \u201cFor parents, these books become bridges into meaningful conversations, offering a safe and thoughtful starting point to explore topics that shape how little ones see themselves, others and the world around them.”<\/p>\n Looking for new books to add to your home library? Check out these options.<\/p>\n A Garden of Creatures<\/p>\n Author: Sheila Heti<\/p>\n Price: $14.92 on Amazon; List Price: $18.99<\/p>\n Conversations around grief and loss are never easy, even as adults. For kids, the topic can be even more confusing, as they are not always able to process or understand the emotions that may stem from losing someone or a pet dear to them. This touching yet age-appropriate book helps answer many of those tough questions we all have when we lose someone precious to us.<\/p>\n Dear Black Boy<\/p>\n Author: Martellus Bennett<\/p>\n Price: $35.99 on Amazon<\/p>\n