Compiling a list of books that promote kindness and empathy, feature characters of different genders and family structures, and of all body types. Also simply fun/educational/beautifully illustrated books that avoid depictions of parent anger (“Baby Llama, what a tizzy! Please stop all this Llama drama”) or fear of parents’ reactions (“What will mother say when she sees us like that?”), discouraging negative emotions or shaming (“Did Pete cry? Goodness no.”), cautionary tales, or weapons. Finally, avoiding books that promote diversity but require an existing awareness of discrimination; e.g. books saying that women also can be doctors.
✽ is for pointing out particularly beautiful illustrations.
Add your toddler book suggestions
Thank you!