How to Use Mirror and Window Books to Encourage Global Citizenship

This post was written by educator Julie Yeros. Some of the most powerful tools in the classroom are books. And in my elementary classroom, diverse picture books helped propel my students toward learning about themselves and the world around them.  As a teacher, I loved to travel during holiday breaks and summers. My students were excited to hear where I had gone and what I … Continue reading How to Use Mirror and Window Books to Encourage Global Citizenship

The Geography of Harry Potter

When I was younger, I considered myself an active reader. I learned to read at a young age, and my grandmother was a teacher. She always gave my sister and me signed Tomie dePaola books like Strega Nona and The Quilt Story. When I reached the third grade, the Wayside School series by Louis Sachar captivated me with the silly short stories of all the … Continue reading The Geography of Harry Potter

Charlie from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Was Originally Written as a ‘Little Black Boy’

BOOKS Charlie Bucket, the hero of Roald Dahl’s famous book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, was originally written to be a “little black boy,” according to Felicity Dahl, the author’s widow. (NPR) Why does diversity in children’s literature make a difference? Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers Toolkit, including great media literacy guides from our partners. Discussion Ideas … Continue reading Charlie from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Was Originally Written as a ‘Little Black Boy’

A Diverse Summer Reading List for Kids

ARTS In children’s books, it can be easier to find talking pandas than characters of color. Only six percent of children’s books published in 2012 featured diverse characters. Here’s a list to better reflect the U.S. today. (NPR) Use our resources to get even more suggestions for fun summer reading. Discussion Ideas Read through our terrific activity “Cultural Diversity in the United States.” Work through … Continue reading A Diverse Summer Reading List for Kids