November 2, 2023 In the ever-diverse world we live in today, it's essential to cultivate not only a love for reading but also the values and skills that help children navigate a global society. Books are an excellent tool for this purpose. They allow kids to explore different cultures, develop emotional intelligence, embrace inclusivity, and learn crucial social and motor skills. In this blog, we'll recommend books for various age groups, tailored to kids growing up in international environments, and focused on these vital aspects of childhood development.
Age Group: 0-2 “Kindness Makes Us Strong” by Sophie Beer This board book features a variety of kids showing compassion and kindness in small but important ways in different settings, such as a playground, a neighbourhood street, a bike route, and lunchtime. This endearing book will foster a sense of community and kindness in little ones from an early age.
“Duck & Goose” by Tad Hills Your little one will be fascinated by Duck and Goose as they learn the bounds of their friendship and discover the importance of sharing, cooperating, and, most all, showing kindness to one another. This book offers scenarios and people that are excellent illustrations of generosity, friendship, curiosity, and problem-solving.
"Everywhere Babies" by Susan Meyers This delightful board book is perfect for infants and toddlers. It introduces babies to the idea that all around the world, babies are loved, fed, and cared for, regardless of where they come from. It's a simple yet powerful message of inclusion and love.
"Baby Dance" by Ann Taylor This interactive book encourages early movement and social bonding between caregivers and babies. It's perfect for fostering motor skills and the parent-child connection.
“It’s Okay to Be Different” by Todd Parr This book honours the characteristics that make each of us unique by presenting a large cast of little ones with a variety of characteristics, such as braces, spectacles, odd noses, and wheelchairs. The vivid colours and humorous pictures will delight children, who will also learn to embrace their individuality.
“My Little Box of Emotions” by DK This collection of illustrated books addresses a variety of feelings that young children encounter daily, such as Happiness, Anger, and Sadness. These stories with vibrant characters and representations of different emotions help children identify the feelings that they are experiencing.
“Families, Families, Families” by Suzanne Lang This delightful rhyme book with amusing animals in framed photos of "families" celebrates family in all its forms. It includes adoption, step-siblings, children raised by grandparents, and animals of all kinds. Both children and adults will be able to relate to the main idea, which is that if two people love one another, they are family.
“In Every House, On Every Street” by Jess Hitchman Your little ones will love this book, about a community and the homes and families that make it up, as well as turning the pages and admiring the detailed and vibrant illustrations.
Age Group: 4-6 "The Invisible Boy" by Trudy Ludwig This story addresses the importance of inclusivity and kindness in schools. It helps children understand the impact of their actions on others and encourages empathy.
"The Dot" by Peter H. Reynolds Encouraging creativity and self-expression, this book tells the story of a young girl who discovers the power of a simple dot. It's a great way to inspire children to believe in their abilities.
"Last Stop on Market Street" by Matt de la Peña This award-winning book illustrates the beauty of diversity and encourages kids to appreciate the richness of the world. It's a wonderful choice for teaching inclusivity and acceptance.
"A Bad Case of Stripes" by David Shannon This imaginative story explores the importance of being true to oneself and not trying to fit in by being someone you're not. It's a great lesson in autonomy and self-acceptance.
“Breathing Makes It Better” by Christopher Willard and Wendy O’Leary This book helps kids learn how to breathe to not only understand but also manage intense emotions. Breathing Makes It Better enables kids to discover emotional regulation by encouraging them to pause and take a breath, using a rhythmic writing style and beautiful graphics.
Reading is not just about storytelling; it's an opportunity to instil essential values and skills in children. In international environments, books that emphasize emotional intelligence, autonomy, inclusivity, and acceptance become even more valuable. These recommendations offer a fantastic starting point for parents and educators to help children grow into empathetic, socially skilled, and inclusive global citizens. The books on this list are not only entertaining but also impactful, creating a brighter and more inclusive future for the next generation.