With Father's Day just around the corner, your little one might have some tricky questions.
In our modern world, families come in all shapes and sizes which is a beautiful thing. Some children have one parent, some have same-sex parents, some have adoptive parents and some have no parents at all. It's so important that we teach our children that whatever category they fall into is completely okay, as are their friends who may have different families to them.
A great way to normalize a topic for your child is to read a book with them. Whether it's about diversity, a new sibling coming into the house, grief or separation, books are a fantastic way to open the conversation about topics that might seem difficult to talk about, as well as making your child feel comforted and understood.
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So, if you're looking for a way to celebrate families of all shapes and sizes, here are five beautiful books that do just that.
YOU’RE AMAZING, ANNA HIBISCUS! written by ATINUKE illustrated by LAUREN TOBIA
This is the eighth and final title in a beautiful series about a girl living with her extended family in Africa and all the fun that comes with having a big busy family. In this book, Anna proves just how amazing she really is.
MY FUNNY FAMILY written by CHRIS HIGGINS illustrated by LEE WILDISH
This is a story about a little girl called Mattie who worries about, well, everything. When your family is as big and complicated as hers, there's a lot to worry about. This is a charming read if you have fellow worrier at home, and is a great way to show that just because families aren't always perfect, they pull together to support each other to get things done.
LUNA LOVES LIBRARY DAY written by JOSEPH COELHO illustrated by FIONA LUMBERS
We've talked about this one before, and for good reason. Luna and her dad have a beautiful thing in common - their love of books and reading. They go to the library together regularly and one day they come across a book that relates to their own family life. This is a beautiful book which gently touches topics such as separation and divorce. Irish Independent called it "An ode to love and different kinds of families, with lyrical text and richly coloured, warm illustrations." Irish Independent, Best Books of 2017
THIS IS HOW WE DO IT by MATT LAMOTHE
We absolutely love this one. This book follows the stories of seven real children around the world - their home life, their school, their hobbies - from Japan, Uganda, Russia, Iran, Peru, India and Italy for one day. Each one of them has very different lives, but they are united through the rhythm of their days. This is a wonderful insight into the lives of those around the world and a great conversation starter.
THE LOTTERYS PLUS ONE written by EMMA DONOGHUE illustrated by CAROLINE HADILADSONO
The Lotterys are a big family - to say the least. In their big old house, they have four parents, seven kids and five pets. When the children's intolerant grandfather that they've never met comes to visit, they struggle to make him feel welcome. This is a great book, full of diversity and inclusivity. We love it!
Will you be giving any of these books a go?
Family Friendly HQ are delighted to bring you this content in partnership with Children's Books Ireland. Children's Books Ireland works with families, teachers, libraries, publishers and communities all across the island to get books into children's hands. They believe that every child should have access to the joy of reading, regardless of their circumstances. Check out childrensbooksireland.ie for more information, reading suggestions and helpful resources.
