Representation matters: Why diverse books keep children engaged

As a child, one of my fondest memories was my grandmother taking me to the Salvation Army to buy books. I longed to find a book with a little girl with a skin tone similar to mine, a book that revolved around a relatable story. I wanted to see myself in this little girl, and if she were an achiever, I would strive to reach or even surpass her. These memories inspired me to become an author, an educator and a literacy advocate who focuses on creating access to culturally relevant books. My goal is to equip First Educators with the tools needed to inspire the next generation to learn, grow and lead.

“First Educator” refers to the fundamental primary role that parents and caregivers play in a person’s early development and education. They instill essential life skills, morals and behaviors.

As a First Educator, when was the last time you brought home a new book? Do you have a home library set up? Does your child see themselves in the characters of the books you bring home?

Studies have shown that children engage more with books when they intersect with their culture. When characters are familiar with the way of life of their community, children establish an affinity with them. Culturally relevant books motivate children to read, which improves comprehension, enhances critical thinking and increases engagement with others. They also broaden empathy by allowing children to step into the shoes of others and understand the world from a diverse perspective, helping to break down stereotypes.

Books act as mirrors where children get to see a reflection of themselves. When children engage with culturally relevant books and characters they relate to, they tend to have an increased sense of self-worth and cultural validation. They end up emulating these worthy characters.

How to identify a culturally relevant book

Having a picture of a person of color on the cover of a book does not equate to cultural relevance. The stories should be centered on the lives of these characters. Culture is the way of life of a group of people and, as such, should be represented in the details of the food, clothing, language and celebration of festivities. Culturally relevant books should be situated in scenarios that children are familiar with.

When selecting books for your child, focus on books authored by individuals from their communities who celebrate and honor cultural values. The similarities in experiences will resonate with children when they engage with these books.

To truly know what books would best suit your child, you need a better understanding of the child’s world. Start by asking them what their typical day looks like. What sights and sounds they encounter, and how those make them feel. Know their preferences: what snacks they like, how they spend their summers. These details differ among cultures, and book selection should reflect that.

First Educators often introduce children to books that serve as both mirrors and windows. According to children’s literature scholar Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop, “Children need windows and mirrors. They need mirrors in which they see themselves and windows through which they see the world.”

Mirror books reflect the lives of children back to them. Readers are familiar with the characters and the setting. Mirror books affirm and validate their experiences and serve as a source of inspiration, particularly in nonfiction, where children are introduced to heroes and sheroes. Window books, on the other hand, open up the world to readers. They give children the liberty to build bridges across cultures, helping develop empathy and curiosity.

As much as a child needs culturally relevant books, there should be a fine balance. When setting up a home library, the collection should be diverse enough to give the child a holistic view of the world as a global citizen. First Educators can seek support from their local librarian in choosing the right books for their child.

Make reading a conversation

As a First Educator, engage your children during and after they read a book. Ask questions such as: “What lessons were learned?” or “What would you have done in this situation?” Engaging children about culturally relevant books connects them to their cultural stories and values. It allows the First Educator to shed more light on cultural practices not found in the book. Bonding over stories nurtures a child’s development, both emotionally and intellectually. It builds trust, improves literacy and unlocks the world for young readers.

A call to action

Pay critical attention to your child’s book collection. Are the books culturally relevant? Do they reflect what you expect your child to know about themselves? Are there stories that, if added, would strengthen the collection? Are there window books to ensure your child has a broad outlook on life?

A child’s understanding of who they are shapes their own story. A powerful gift you can give a child is a book that opens them up to see and know themselves better.

As Dr. Bishop wisely stated: “When there are enough books available that can act as both mirrors and windows for all our children, they will see that we can celebrate both our differences and our similarities, because together they are what make us all human.”

Join Planting People Growing Justice every first Saturday for the Leaders Are Readers program for intergenerational reading circles that bring children and families together through storytelling and interactive activities, plus a free lunch and book giveaway from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Jimmy Lee Recreation Center. For more information, visit www.ppgjli.org/.

You can also reach Dr. Artika Tyner directly at drartikatyner@gmail.com.