Kindness is the Coolest!

On the heels of Pink Shirt Day, here in Ontario, we are reminded to lift each other up and stop bullying. Relevant children's books are a great way to start conversations with our littles about the importance of inclusion, kindness and acceptance.

Let's keep the conversation going with this month's kindness-inspired reading list. Kindness is the coolest!

First up, One Love adapted by Cedella Marley & illustrated by Vanessa Brantely-Newton. One of Bob Marley's classic songs is brought to life in a beautifully illustrated book format. Kiddos will hang on every inspiring word and dance to the melody. A simple reminder for our littles, (and all of us), to "get together and feel alright!" A wonderful lesson that there is power in unity.

"One Love" adapted by Cedella Marley & illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton.

Next up, I Am Love: A Book of Compassion written by Susan Verde & art by Peter H. Reynolds. This one is new to our bookshelf and an instant feel-good read. Little readers are encouraged to tap into their inherent emotion of love and discover all the goodness that emerges. A great story that will warm everyone's heart during story-time, and remind little readers to lead with love.

"I Am Love: A Book of Compassion" by Susan Verde & Peter H. Reynolds.

Another heart-warming addition to the bookshelf is part of the Rosenthal series: (1) Dear Girl, A Celebration of Wonderful, Smart, Beautiful You!, and (2) Dear Boy, A Celebration of Cool, Clever, Compassionate You! Written as an open letter to our kiddos, each story is designed to lift readers up and remind them of their true potential. In doing good and trying our best, we lift others up, too. A thoughtful series that opens up dialogue about choices and behaviour, while also celebrating our unique identity.

"Dear Girl, A Celebration of Wonderful, Smart, Beautiful You!" written by Amy Krouse Rosenthal & Paris Rosenthal, and illustrated by Holly Hatam.

"Dear Boy, A Celebration of Cool, Clever, Compassionate You!" written by Paris Rosenthal & Jason Rosenthal, and illustrated by Holly Hatam.

A truly unique addition to our bookshelf is I Walk with Vanessa: A Story About a Simple Act of Kindness by Kerascoët. Told solely through illustrations, the story follows a little girl whose simple act of kindness impacts someone's day, and acts as a powerful tool against bullying. Being an ally to someone experiencing bullying can feel overwhelming or confusing to our littles, and this visually mesmerizing story does a great job of exploring kindness, caring and community allyship.

"I Walk With Vanessa: A Story About a Simple Act of Kindness" by Kerascoët.

When it comes to kindness, these are just a few standouts on my kiddos' bookshelf, but there is a world of beautifully crafted children's books waiting to be read and thoughtfully discussed.

Let's choose kindness today and everyday, and as always, happy reading!