The stories we read to our children from the time they are toddlers will start to shape the way they view themselves and others. Finding books with messages of inclusivity, kindness, acceptance, and love will affect their interactions with peers. Picture books starring gay characters are a valuable addition to any child's reading list. Stories told from the perspective of a child expressing gay sexual identity are told through an open and honest lens that will resonate with young readers.
The definition of true bravery is exemplified in this story about a farm boy turned knight who follows his heart. In a modern-day fairytale, Cedric displays courage in every aspect of his life. His humble beginnings living on a pumpkin farm are a stark contrast to the adventurous journey he discovers fighting dragons and rescuing damsels in distress. But his real act of courage is on display when Cedric rescues a prince and lives happily ever after.
Children's Books With Gay Protagonists
Explore the best collection of books for children celebrating characters who are proud of their gay sexual identity. Each of these stories offers the unique experience of children who face the world without any pretenses about who they are, how they identify, and where their hearts take them in life. Just like in stories about gender identity, their journeys offer valuable insight for all kids, no matter what orientation. The message in each of these picture books with gay protagonists is unwavering in terms of embracing, including, and loving all friends. Also, be sure to explore books featuring two-mom families Not only are these stories are wonderful to read during June, Gay Pride Month, they are an asset to every child's bookshelf all year long.
Books for Kids About Gay Pride
Books for children about gay pride are an excellent resource for young adolescents coming to terms with their sexual orientation. It is also important to include stories about children raised by gay parents that focus on the unconditional love in all different types of families. Any child fortunate enough to have the unwavering support of two parents, as reflected in picture books with gay dads, has a head start in life. Caregivers need to tread lightly when it comes to making assumptions about gender norms, and associating certain interests, hobbies, and mannerisms with a child's sexuality. It is extremely common, and normal, for young people to not fit neatly inside a box of preconceived notions about behavior and identity. But if a child starts show worrisome emotions, like depression or anxiety, or begins to withdraw from social interactions, it may be time to explore what is going on. Helping a child who may identify as gay can begin during the preschool years by reading books characters on the same path. Their stories will help foster a conversation and start a positive journey toward acceptance, self-love, and pride.
From Archie to Zack
To all of those who witness their remarkable bond, it is no surprise that Archie and Zack have a love that transcends friendship. The boys are in synch with everything they do together, from science projects to practicing their instruments. But like a lot of first crushes, each child keeps his sentiments quiet, in fear that the feelings are not mutual. Archie desperately wants to share his feelings, though the letters he writes just don't sound quite right and he is nervous about sending them. When they accidentally land in the hands of some friends, they intervene in the most touching way, giving the boys the nudge they need.
Bobby and the Big Valentine
Secret crushes are always meant to be revealed in February when Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse. For Bobby and Eddie, best friends who are inseparable, the time has come to be honest about their feelings for each other. Bobby works hard to create the perfect valentine card, worrying if it is good enough for his special friend. He is also a overcome with doubt about how Eddie will respond. An endearing story about ;honesty and truthfulness in relationships between gay children.
Willow and the Wedding
Willow makes it her mission to help her Uncle Ash re-discover his love for dancing in time for his nuptials to David. Everything about the beach ceremony and afterparty is going to be just perfect, thanks to a darling niece who refuses to let a bad memory get in the way. As a child, Ash had been bullied for his performance in a school play, resulting in his refusal to dance. But Willow has just the solution for helping him find his rhythm again in a book that celebrates gay marriage.
Rainbow: A First Book of Pride
The meaning behind each of the six colors on the rainbow flag is explained in simple terms throughout this LGBQ primer. Life, healing, sunlight, nature, harmony, and spirit are concepts that are paired with smiling, loving people from various backgrounds. The final page is joyful celebration of individual who join together in a pride parade.
Jack (Not Jackie)
Like lots of big sisters, Susan has some preconceived notions of what life will be like when Jackie gets older. But instead of playing princess, the younger sibling prefers to do more boyish things like play superheroes and get dirty outside. She cuts her hair short, ditches the dresses, and requests for everyone to call her Jack.
Téo's Tutu
A talented little boy with a passion for dance is getting ready for his big recital. The moment to shine has a lot more meaning for a child who needs to decide whether to wear the silver pants assigned to the males, or the pink tutu that makes him feel alive and more like himself. A touching book about the courage to present your authentic self on the biggest stage.
Love, Violet
Secret crushes always surface on Valentine's Day. The entire school year, Violet has experienced all the symptoms whenever Mira is around. Her heart races in her chest and butterflies flutter around in her stomach every single day, but she's just not certain if the feelings are mutual. Every time she tries to open up to Mira, poor Violet loses her courage. Now, with a heartfelt card just for Mira, Violet finally decides to take a chance at expressing her love.
Pride Puppy
A colorful board book for toddlers about a fun day at the pride parade. A rhyming alphabet story takes readers along with the family as they enjoy ice cream, visit with friends, and celebrate with family. Everything is perfect until their beloved dog is missing and they need the help of all the people to reunite to locate him.
Worm Loves Worm
The author conveys an endearing message of unconditional love and commitment. Worms are hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female parts. They are the perfect characters for addressing love unhindered by gender norms. A few laugh out loud moments are sprinkled throughout, like a little bit about who should wear the wedding gown versus tuxedo.
Leo and the Pink Marker
Preschoolers will enjoy this tale about a little boy who thinks the world around him would be better in pink. He heads to the junkyard, a place filled with ugly, grey discarded trash, and brightens it up with his magic marker. Leo gets carried away with his mission to pinken up his surroundings, even going so far as to add the color to his cat.
Prince and Knight
A fairytale about finding the person you love without regard for the norms of society. This is the story of a prince who leaves the palace, with his parents in tow, on a quest to find a princess. He travels far and wide, meeting a wide variety of beautiful ladies, none of whom make his heart flutter. Upon returning to the castle, he finds a menacing dragon threatening the castle. Joining a brave knight in shining armor to fight the beast, the two connect in a most unexpected way.
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