By sharing stories together and having conversations about the books you read, you can help young children understand the world around them. Seeing diverse experiences represented in books helps children to explore their own identities and develop empathy for others.
These books feature family life and many different kinds of families, showing young children that each is unique and special.
Not every book is available at all locations, but any title can be requested. The children’s librarian at your neighborhood library is also here to help, with suggestions for additional titles on topics of interest–or feel free to suggest some titles to us. New books are always being added to the collection. You can find more Here to Help booklists on different topics by clicking here.
Big or small, similar or different-looking, there are all kinds of families. Some have one parent, some have two, and many include extended family. This inclusive look at many varieties of families will help young readers see beyond their own immediate experiences.
Rhyming text shows an appreciation of the joy and excitement of the different ways a family can grow.
In rhyming text, when the whole family and guests show up for the big dinner at Grandma’s house, it becomes clear that the house is much too small to hold them all. You can also check out this title as eBook on Hoopla.
Carol Olivia Clementine lives with Mama Rose. Mama Rose is tender and sweet. She is also as stern and demanding as any good parent should be. Though Carol Olivia misses her mother and father, Mama Rose becomes her “home.” And Carol Olivia concludes that she loves her “just like a mama.” You can also check out this title as eBook on OverDrive/Libby.
A guide for young readers that answers questions about conception, pregnancy, and their own birth.
A family can be many things, in this story that introduces numbered groups from one to ten.
Stella’s class is having a Mother’s Day celebration, and she doesn’t know who to bring. She has two dads as well as lots of other family members that support and love her, but who should she bring to the celebration? This sweet picture book reminds readers of the importance of all kinds of family. This title is also available for checkout as an eBook on Overdrive/Libby or as an eBook on Hoopla.
A rope passed down through the generations frames an African American family’s story as they journey north during the time of the Great Migration.
From playing in the snow to a rainy-day ride, to double-scoop treats and crash-landing in leaves, two can be the perfect number for creating life’s memories. And two can definitely be enough for a warm family, full of the love, support, and comfort that every child needs.Whether a father and daughter, mother and son, or a grandparent and grandchild, two is enough to fill each season of the year with wonders, big and small. Author Janna Matthies’ soothing rhyme and Merrilee Liddiard’s warm illustrations of diverse pairs make this story perfect for encouraging a sense of acceptance, security, and community.
Cut paper collage illustrations give a three-dimensional feel to pictures that show babies in a variety of countries being toted by parents, siblings, and other relatives.