Anti-Racist & Anti-Bias Resources

North City Cooperative Preschool Anti-Racist Anti-Bias Policy

As a school community, we believe understanding and acceptance of all people are crucial in early education and we believe diversity in the classroom population is not only welcome but necessary to lifelong development. Applicants will never be discriminated against. This includes, but is not limited to, discrimination based on race, religious belief, ethnic culture, sexual orientation, gender expression, family structure, cognitive or physical ability, immigration status or economic class. Admittance is based only on the appropriateness of a student’s age for a certain class and available space.

Inclusive Book Recommendations for Children

When We Say Black Lives Matter by Maxine Beneba Clarke — In this joyful exploration of the Black Lives Matter motto, a loving narrator relays to a young Black child the strength and resonance behind the words. 

Your Name is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins Bigelow — Your Name is a Song is a celebration to remind all of us about the beauty, history, and magic behind names.

What are Your Words? A Book About Pronouns by Katherine Locke — Follow Ari through their neighborhood as they try to find their words in this sweet, accessible introduction to gender-inclusive pronouns that is perfect for readers of all ages.

Freedom, We Sing by Amyra León & Molly Mendoza — As powerful as it is beautiful, Freedom, We Sing is a lyrical picture book designed to inspire and give hope to readers around the world.

We are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom — Inspired by the many Indigenous-led movements across North America, We Are Water Protectors issues an urgent rallying cry to safeguard the Earth’s water from harm and corruption.

My Rainbow by Trinity & DeShanna Neal — A dedicated mom puts love into action as she creates the perfect rainbow-colored wig for her autistic, transgender daughter, based on the real-life experience of mother-daughter advocate duo.

We Move Together by Kelly Fritsch — We Move Together follows a mixed-ability group of kids as they creatively negotiate everyday barriers and find joy and connection in disability culture and community.

In My Mosque by M.O. Yuksel — A big-hearted global celebration of mosques and the diverse worshippers that they welcome every day.

Our Skin: A First Conversation About Race by Megan Madison, Jessica Ralli, & Isabel Roxas — Developed by experts in the fields of early childhood and activism against injustice, this topic-driven board book offers clear, concrete language and beautiful imagery that young children can grasp and adults can leverage for further discussion.

Eyes That Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho — Drawing from the strength of powerful women in her life, a young Asian girl recognizes her own beauty and discovers a path to self-love and empowerment.

The Nutcracker in Harlem by T.E. McMorrow — In this original retelling, set in New York City during the height of the Harlem Renaissance, one little girl finds her voice as a musician thanks to her enchanting adventures with a magical toy.

My Family, Your Family by Kathryn Cole and Cornelia Li — This book includes a diverse array of characters and celebrates gay parents, single parents, blended families, and other family groups rarely seen in board books.

Our Favorite Day of the Year by A.E. Ali — In this charming story of friendship and celebrating differences, young readers can discover how entering a new friendship with an open mind and sharing parts of yourself brings people together.

Papa, Daddy, & Riley by Seamus Kirst — Families are made of love in this heartwarming story that shows there are lots of ways to be part of one.

When Aiden Became a Brother by Kyle Lukoff — When Aidan Became a Brother is a heartwarming book that will resonate with transgender children, reassure any child concerned about becoming an older sibling, and celebrate the many transitions a family can experience,

A Boy Like You by Frank Murphy — In an age when boys are expected to fit into a particular mold, this book celebrates all the wonderful ways to be a boy.

A Girl Like You by Frank Murphy & Carla Murphy — A Girl Like You encourages girls to embrace what makes them unique, to choose kindness, and to be their own advocates.

Under My Hijab by Hena Khan — Under My Hijab honors the diverse lives of contemporary Muslim women and girls, their love for each other, and their pride in their culture and faith.

How Do You Say I Love You by Hannah Eliot — Tapping into the emotions that parents feel for their children, the rhyming text is accompanied by sweet artwork that depicts different cultures around the world.

The Proudest Color by Shelia Modir & Jeffrey Kashif — The Proudest Color is a timely, sensitive introduction to race, racism, and racial pride.

What Happened to You? By James Catchpole — A ground-breaking, funny story that helps children understand what it might feel like to be seen as different.

Under the Love Umbrella by Davina Bell — A beautiful tale celebrating the invisible, protective, omnipresent love love between parents and children.

Prince & Knight by Daniel Haack — In this modern fairy tale, a noble prince and a brave knight come together to defeat a terrible monster and in the process find true love in a most unexpected place.

Best Indigenous People’s Day Books for Kids — recommended by Frances Coppa, the Parent Education Coordinator at Shoreline Community College