Growing a Reader: Kids' Books, Tips and More

Pride Month

Throughout the next couple of months, cities and towns around the world will celebrate Pride. These inclusive events celebrate the strides that have been made and continue to be made by and for individuals who identify as LGBTQ. In Toronto, we celebrate Pride during the month of June. In recognition of Pride Month, Toronto Public Library is offering a variety of pride programming for all ages.

Teachable Moment

For parents and caregivers with children, your child may have a friend at school who has two mothers or two fathers. Perhaps your child was at the park and saw a same-sex couple holding hands. This is a teachable moment to explain that there are differences that make us unique; there are similarities that transcend those differences, similarities such as love. A couple of years ago, Toronto Public Library created a Rainbow Families booklist highlighting some of the great picture books we have for younger children. 

1. Asha's Mums by Rosamund Elwin
2. And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson
3. Daddy's Roommate by Michael Willhoite
4. Heather Has Two Mommies by Leslea Newman

1. Mom and Mum are Getting Married! by Ken Setterington
2. The Not-So-Only Child by Heather Jopling
3. Uncle Bobby's Wedding by Sarah S. Brannen
4. Molly's Family by Nancy Garden

The Need for Diverse Books

Over the last couple of years, the importance of diverse books has been highlighted in the media. In a PBS article discussing diverse books, a Scholastic Reading Club editorial director said “I think it’s really important for kids to see themselves in literature. They deserve to have that indescribable feeling when you get a book and it really speaks to you, when you feel like you’re not alone.” Children with same-sex parents deserve to know that their family is equal to any other family. This year, Fairview Library will be hosting a Rainbow Storytime. All families are welcome. 

Remembering Orlando 

As individuals around the world celebrate pride, the tragedy in Orlando against the LGBTQ community and their allies is a reminder that hate exists. This post is dedicated to all LGBTQ and LGBTQ allies lives cut short by hate.

#loveislove