Diverse Perspectives in Children's Literature

According to our textbook, "The ability to see other cultures and life experiences is important in developing children's perspective, insight, and possibilities as they progress to becoming citizens of the world" (Johnson, 2012).

Diversity is seen in all types of categories such as:

• Culture
• Language
• Religion
• Social class
• Age
• Exceptionality
• Family structure

It is crucial that us teachers educate all children on the topic of diversity. Teaching children diversity at a young age will give that child an open mind to all the different classmates, as well as teachers, he/she will have throughout their school career.

"Multicultural literature helps children to see themselves reflected in stories, and it shows them hoe people unlike them feel, think, and live". (Johnson, 2012). Benefits of multicultural literature are as follows:

• provides enjoyment of quality literature that meets the criteria of literary and artistic merit
• presents information and knowledge about the historical and continuing contributions of the people of diverse cultures
• exposes children to diverse viewpoints
• fosters awareness, appreciation, and understanding of people who are different from themselves
• promotes critical inquiry into issues of equal representation