5 Children's Books that promote Kindness, Inclusion and Social Growth

At SDN, we value books that promote kindness, inclusion and social growth. 

Here are some of our favourites:

1. I’m Australian Too by Mem Fox
   
   A powerful story about multiculturalism and the many different families that make up the Australian population.  Could prompt discussions about immigration, refugees, heritage, language and the children’s own family backgrounds.
   
   Favourite quote: “Sadly I’m a refugee – I’m not Australian yet.  But if your country lets me in, I’d love to be a vet”.
   
   
2. The Big Umbrella by Amy June Bates
   
   A simple story about how there is room for everyone under the big umbrella when it begins to rain.Regardless of shape, size and colour, absolutely everybody is welcome and everybody fits under the big umbrella! Could spark many conversations about acceptance and inclusion.
   
   Favourite quote: “Some people worry there won’t be enough room under the umbrella.  But the amazing thing is… there is.  There is always room”.
   
   
3. Have you Filled a Bucket Today by Carol McCloud
   
   An absolute essential for early education! This story gives children powerful imagery and effective metaphors to understand how to be kind to others.  Follow on discussions could include types of positive behaviours, daily kindness rituals, appreciation and gratitude.
   
   Favourite quote: “When you fill someone’s bucket, you fill your own bucket too! You feel good when you help others feel good”.
   
   
4. Those Shoes by Maribeth Boelts
   
   A truly heart-warming story about how doing kind things or giving to others can be hard, but also very rewarding.  Themes to discuss and explore after reading could include materialism, the value of money, and the difference between wants and needs.
   
   Favourite quote: “Antonio is smiling big in his brand new shoes. I feel happy when I look at his face and mad when I look at my Mr Alfey shoes”.
   
   
5. Being kind by Pat Zietlow Miller
   
   This is a beautiful story of a young girl and how she explores the meaning of kindness and discovers many small ways in which children can be kind to each other.  This story could prompt discussions about how small acts of kindness can grow and have a ripple effect on those around them.
   
   Favourite quote: “Maybe I can only do small things.  But my small things might join small things other people do. And together they can grow into something big”