Pride month is about celebrating diversity and individuality, especially recognizing the LGBTQ+ community. Educators and parents can use this month as an opportunity to explain Pride celebrations and LGBTQ identity to kids. Books are not only a great educational resource for this purpose, but also provide an opportunity to show diverse representation during everyday activities. Here are seven of our favorite Pride books for kids that every family can add to their bookshelves.  

7 Best LGBTQ Kids Books to Have On Your Bookshelves

Books are more than just stories. They teach us essential life lessons and can be used as educational tools for young children, especially when it comes to talking about diversity, inclusion and gender identity. With the help of illustrated books and engaging characters, your child will have new tools to understand the history and purpose of  Pride month. 

1. Love Makes a Family by Sophie Beer

This is a delightful book that teaches children that not all families look the same. In ‘Love Makes a Family‘ by Sophie Beer, we are reminded that what truly makes a family is love. Whether you have two dads, two moms, a single parent or any other family structure, small acts of love and kindness are the actions that bind us all together. 

2. My Two Moms and Me by Michael Joosten

Next on our list of Pride books for kids is ‘My Two Moms and Me‘ by Michael Joosten. This adorable book tells the story of several same-sex lesbian couples that are busy moms who love looking after their children. Join them as they go on playdates, have fun at the swimming pool, and enjoy breakfast time as a family. 

3. Julian is a Mermaid by Jessica Love

This LGBTQ children’s book highlights acceptance, individuality, and freedom of expression. ‘Julian is a Mermaid‘ by Jessica Love follows a child named Julian as he admires the spectacular outfits of three women on the subway. When he arrives home, he begins an adventure to express himself by making his own magical mermaid costume. This is a story of self-love and self-acceptance. 

4. Rainbow: A First Book of Pride by Michael Genhart

The rainbow – a symbol of the LGBTQ community – is a great developmentally appropriate entry point for authentic conversations about the beauty we can find in variety.  ‘Rainbow: A First Book of Pride‘ by Michael Genhart is one of our favorite ways to introduce children of all ages to Pride month. Full of bright, eye-catching illustrations, this book celebrates LGBTQ+ Pride and tells the beautiful meaning behind each color of the rainbow. 

5. Daddy, Papa, and Me by Leslea Newman

Another esssential Pride book for kids is ‘Daddy, Papa, and Me‘ by Leslea Newman. This heartwarming book uses a rhythmic cadence and beautiful illustrations to tell the story of a toddler and his two dads. This family’s activities during the story – playing hide and seek, bathtime, and kissing each other goodnight – will be relatable to any young child, and serves as a great opportunity to represent how families can be different but also the same. 

6. Albert the Confused Manatee by Christopher Straub

Part of a child’s development is understanding who they are as a person and finding their place in the world. ‘Albert the Confused Manatee‘ by Christopher Straub is an excellent illustration of this journey, and a must-have for any Pride reading list. This book talks about the journey of self-discovery. With help from his underwater friends, Albert learns that even though he is a different animal from his friends, they all have similarities too. 

7. The Boy with the Rainbow Heart by William Mason

‘The Boy With the Rainbow Heart‘ by William Mason, is an excellent resource for teaching self-acceptance. This story follows a young boy with a rainbow heart who introduces colors to the town of Grey. Through the act of being himself, the town of Grey experiences love and kindness and learns how to accept those who are different. 

Pride Month for Kids: Celebrate With Books

There is no better way to celebrate the festivities of June than with pride books for kids. While we adore the LGBTQ kids’ books mentioned above, there are many more excellent books that your family can explore. 

Here at Vivvi, we promote equity and inclusion in every classroom–not just during Pride, but all year long. Parents can and should play a role in this conversation, too; celebrating diversity builds awareness and empathy, which is so important for your children’s growth and development. Get in touch with us to learn more about our early learning program.