Back to School-Kids Books That Beam Black Joy
Start the year with intentionality
Many schools are already in full back to school swing. In addition to parents and caregivers, some educators also read Raising Antiracist Kids (hello! We love you!). So if you’re in the midst of back to school as a parent/caregiver or an educator, we are sharing a quick list of our favorite kids’ books that center Black joy.
Learning about Black history is important and should be taught all year round. AND there’s incredible power in showing little ones stories of Black kids just living life, finding joy and relishing in their freedom. For Black kids, seeing themselves reflected in these pages is important to their sense of self and their confidence.
Below, you’ll find a list of such books from our home library with links to purchase each. Or you can also support your local library by getting them there.
Our kids know that if they tell us they’re bored, a lecture is probably loading about the benefits of boredom for their imagination. This book illustrates the heights little kids can reach when they use their minds to play.
Little Big Man by Varian Johnson
Elijah’s got a new little brother and things are a bit different in his life. Follow this adorable story as he learns to redefine quality time with this new version of his family.
Dear Black Child by Rahma Rodaah
With kid-appropriate advice like “Take up space” and “Do not fear the unknown”, this beautiful kids book is chockful of lessons for little Black kids.
Celebrating Black boys in their glory and brilliance, this book is a must-read to instill confidence in little Black boys looking for their place in this world.
Mermaid and Pirate by Tracey Baptiste
When The Little Mermaid was released, our daughter read this book every single night and fell in love with the vibrant imagery and adventurous story.
If you’re looking for a book to occupy your little artists, this delightful one with playful drawings is the ideal fit for them.
As the school year begins, we’re thinking about ways we can instill confidence and purpose into our kids. These books are ideal tools for just that.
That’s all from us for today. Whatever feelings you are having about Back to School, they are valid and they are yours. Our little ones are growing and it’s both magical and scary in this current world. BUT if you’re here, that means you’re being intentional about building community with like-minded parents and raising kids who can be bold changemakers not just in the future but also in the here and now.
Take good care, okay?
Tabitha & Adam