As a teacher, I feel it is my duty to teach students tolerance, acceptance and empathy. We want every single student to feel accepted and know that they belong.
I love picture books. I especially love picture books that inspire, provoke, and promote amazing classroom discussions. Let’s look at ten picture books that I use to teach students about important character traits.
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by Maribeth Boelts
Jeremy wants the latest pair of sneakers that everyone has but Grandma can’t afford them. He wants these shoes so bad that he even dreams about them. When he finally finds the shoes at a second hand store, you won’t believe what he does with them!
This relatable book is one that I read every year and the thought provoking discussions we have are the best!
by Grace Byers
I know that we do not look the same. Our skin, our eyes, our hair, our frame.
But that does not dictate our worth.
We both have places here on Earth.
This beautifully written book is a must have for any classroom.
Get it here.
by Charlotte Zolotow
by Lisa Mantchev
The story begins with, “The trouble with having a tiny elephant for a pet is that you never quite fit in,” by a little boy with a tiny pet elephant. The Pet Club has an angry sign—“Strictly No Elephants”. The little boy decides to make his own Pet Club and says, “All are Welcome”. This book has a beautiful message about acceptance and tolerance.
by Trudy Ludwig
Oliver wants to be a dancer but everyone makes fun of him. They think tap dancing is for girls. Oliver’s dad even tries to get him to play ball. This is another great book teaching acceptance and will allow for discussion of gender stereotypes. I highly recommend this book!
by Jacqueline Woodson
This story begins, “There will be times when you walk into a room and no one there is quite like you“.
This book is all about being brave when you feel like an outsider and how it can be a beautiful thing. This is a book that students can relate to and celebrates diversity. Every primary classroom should have this book!
by Pat Zietlow Miller
everyone laughs at her. One classmate wants to make her feel better,
wondering: What does it mean to be
kind? This book explores what kindness is, and how even a small act of
kindness can make a difference.
