One of the most profound developmental tasks for young children is to understand who they are — to develop a sense of identity, including their gender. At Bright Horizons, we strive to create a safe and reflective space for children to develop their identities and to counterbalance gender stereotypes. One way to support growth and explore gender diversity is through reading. Below are several books chosen by our Education and Development Team to explore at home and in the classroom.

Books about Identity & Gender Diversity

1. "Julian is a Mermaid" by Jessica Love (Preschool and up)
2. "Introducing Teddy" by Jessica Walton and Dougal MacPherson (Preschool and up)
3. "Jamie is Jamie: a Book About Being Yourself and Playing Your Way" by Afsaneh Moradian and Maria Bogade (Preschool and up)

Books about Different Kinds of Families

1. "Love Makes a Family" by Sophie Beer (Toddler, Twos, Preschool)
2. "Stella Brings the Family" by Miriam B. Schiffer and Holly Clifton-Brown (Kindergarten Prep and up)
3. "And Tango Makes Three" by Justin Richardson, Peter Parnell, and Henry Cole (Preschool and up)
4. "My Family, Your Family" by Kathryn Cole and Cornelia Li (All ages)

Happy reading – and don’t forget to check out our Growing Readers site for more educator-approved books to explore all year long!

More on Gender & Identity

• Learn more about gender development and stereotypes and ways you can support exploration at home.