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1. What is identity?
2. Who are you?
3. How does your family, school and community impact your identity?

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1. What is cultural identity?
2. How are people perceived based on their cultural identity?
3. How does your name reflect your cultural identity?

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1. What is gender identity?
2. How does your gender affect your own identity?
3. How can gender identity be transformative for people? How we can become allies for those who need more support in the community?

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1. How can our abilities or disabilities define or not define us?
2. How can having a disability change someone's identity?
3. People who are labeled with a disability are often seen as only their disability rather than the person they truly are. How does this affect one's identity?

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This picture book reminds us that we are all wonders through our own unique, physical appearance and abilities. This story teaches young students to embrace their abilities and recognize that other's abilities and appearances may differ from themselves.

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We're All Wonders by R. J. Palacio: 9781524766498 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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The New York Times bestseller that celebrates kindness, belonging, and friendship. Inspired by the unforgettable blockbuster book and movie Wonder, this is the perfect graduation gift for kids of all ages,...

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Watch this video about young children who talk about their disabilities and how their lives have changed because of it.

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What It's Like To Experience A Disability (Full Episode)

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Just Ask!: Be Brave, Be Different, Be you by Sonia Sotomayer

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Just Ask!: Be Brave, Be Different, Be you by Sonia Sotomayer

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This picture book celebrates the various kinds of disabilities that can be seen amongst various kinds of people. This books celebrates people's differences and encourages young children to explore their curiosities and just ask!

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Praise for Just Ask:

* "Addressing topics too often ignored, this picture book presents information in a direct and wonderfully child-friendly way." -Booklist, *STARRED REVIEW*

"An affirmative, delightfully diverse overview of disabilities." - Kirkus Reviews

"A hopeful and sunny exploration of the many things that make us unique [with] dynamic and vibrant illustrations [that] emphasize each character's unique abilities. . . . A thoughtful and empathetic story of inclusion." - SLJ

"A beautiful story about understanding differences and celebrating what makes us unique." - Miguel Cardona, U.S. Secretary of Education, Parents Magazine

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Just Ask! by Sonia Sotomayor: 9780525514121 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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Justice Sonia Sotomayor and award-winning artist Rafael Lopez create a kind and caring book about the differences that make each of us unique. A #1 New York Times bestseller! Winner of the Schneider...

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This graphic novel is about a young girl (bunny) named Cece who is deaf and is attending a new school. Cece faces challenges about identity, ability, friendship and what it means to be a superhero.

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A 2015 Newbery Honor Book Going to school and making new friends can be tough. But going to school and making new friends while wearing a bulky hearing aid strapped to your chest? That requires superpowers! In this funny, poignant graphic novel memoir, author/illustrator Cece Bell chronicles her hearing loss at a young age and her subsequent experiences with the Phonic Ear, a very powerful-and very awkward-hearing aid.
The Phonic Ear gives Cece the ability to hear-sometimes things she shouldn't-but also isolates her from her classmates. She really just wants to fit in and find a true friend, someone who appreciates her as she is. After some trouble, she is finally able to harness the power of the Phonic Ear and become "El Deafo, Listener for All." And more importantly, declare a place for herself in the world and find the friend she's longed for.

PRAISE FOR EL DEAFO
STARRED REVIEWS
"A standout autobiography. Someone readers will enjoy getting to know."
-- Publishers Weekly, starred review

"Worthy of a superhero."
-- Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"This empowering autobiographical story belongs right next to Raina Telgemeier's Smile (2011) and Liz Prince's Tomboy."
-- Booklist

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New York Times Bestseller A 2015 Newbery Honor Book Going to school and making new friends can be tough. But going to school and making new friends while wearing a bulky hearing aid strapped to your chest? That requires superpowers! In this funny, poignan

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This picturebook follows seven different children across the world on their daily activities. This story depicts various cultures and customs through the actions of each child.

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Follow one day in the real lives of seven kids from around the world-Italy, Japan, Iran, India, Peru, Uganda, and Russia!

In Japan, Kei plays Freeze Tag, while in Uganda, Daphine likes to jump rope. While the way they play may differ, the shared rhythm of their days-and this one world we all share -unites them.

This genuine exchange provides a window into traditions that may be different from our own as well as mirrors reflecting our common experiences. Inspired by his own travels, Matt Lamonthe transports readers across the globe and back with this luminous and thoughtful picture book.

Publication Date: 05/02/2017

Matt Lamothe is one third of the award-winning design company ALSO as well as the coauthor of The Exquisite Book, The Where, the Why and the How, and The Who, the What, and the When. He lives in Chicago.

★ "The similarities and differences between the seven lives are both delicate and astonishing in their details."
- Booklist, starred review

★ "Readers will enjoy making cultural comparisons . . . as they follow each child through his or her day."
- The Horn Book Magazine, starred review

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Follow one day in the real lives of seven kids from around the world-Italy, Japan, Iran, India, Peru, Uganda, and Russia! In Japan, Kei plays Freeze Tag, while in Uganda, Daphine likes to jump rope. While the way they play may differ, the shared rhythm of their days-and this one world we all share -unites them.

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Have students create a cultural X-ray for Cece's character and share with the class. What makes Cece's identity so unique? How does her deafness define who she is as a person? What else makes up her identity? What does she value?

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All the Way to the Top: How One Girl's Fight for Americans with Disabilities Changed Everything by Annette Bay Pimentel

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All the Way to the Top: How One Girl's Fight for Americans with Disabilities Changed Everything by Annette Bay Pimentel

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This autobiographical picturebook is about Jennifer Keelan and her avocation for rights of the disabled, the Americans with Disabilities Act. Although this book is set in the late 1980's to 1990, the moral of this story rings true to this day: always stand up for what's important, fair and equitable. This book serves as a reminder to never give up fighting for what's right and to always stay true to yourself.

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"A powerful, empowering story!" - "A necessary testament to the power of children's voices." --Kirkus Reviews

"Clear, accessible prose accompanied by Ali's creamily textured digital illustrations...a jumping-off point for conversations." --Publishers Weekly

"Pimentel's compelling, present-tense narrative gives the story great immediacy, helping children connect with Jennifer's reactions to physical barriers and social injustice...Still an activist, Jennifer Keelan-Chaffins offers a thought-provoking foreword to this inspiring picture book." --Booklist

"Pimentel offers a great look at a young activist creating change and a better understanding of the importance of the ADA." --School Library Journal

How did you discover Jennifer's story?
About three years ago I was startled to notice that several books for kids were being published about historical events in the 1980s and 1990s. That's history for kids, but for me it was my young adulthood.

I decided I should write about something from that time that I remember being important. As soon as I had posed the question that way, I knew what I wanted to write about: the Americans with Disabilities Act. I had classmates at UC Berkeley in the mid-1980s who managed to navigate campus life with disabilities, but it wasn't easy for them. A few years later I had watched the news coverage about the ADA with great interest, thinking about my college acquaintances, and was very happy to see it pass. Then I had watched the world of public spaces radically transform in the next few years, making space for people with disabilities. I saw cut-away curbs, Braille elevator panels, and close-captioning on movies. My children attended school with kids with disabilities--something that was unthinkable in the elementary school I attended. I realized that kids today probably had no idea that the world had once been so different.
​
So I went looking for a way into telling the story of the ADA. It didn't take me very long to find the Capitol Crawl and Jennifer. I knew that hers was a story I wanted to tell, but only if she was willing to tell it with me. It took some detective work to find a way to contact her, but she has been open, generous, and enthusiastic about sharing her story with kids.
Why did you want to write about her story?
I love stories of people who are relatively unknown but whose courageous actions have an outsize impact -people who nudge the world in new directions. Jennifer's courage and determination as a child inspired me, and I think it will inspire lots of kids to know that an eight-year-old can make a difference in the world.
How did the writing process go? Did you bounce ideas off of Jennifer as you went?
I always knew that the Capitol Crawl would come near the end of the book-it's a dramatic and important moment. But it was tricky to know what needed to come earlier in the book. Jennifer's life-like anyone else's-is complex and multi-faceted. I had to leave out lots of fascinating bits, which is always painful.

For a few drafts, I tried to continue Jennifer's story well past the Capitol Crawl. After all, she has continued to be an activist, and today there continue to be issues of access for people with disabilities. But ultimately, a picture book cannot sprawl. It has to choose the ground it will occupy, and do that as well as it can.

I worked with Jennifer throughout the process. She did formal interviews with me as well as many telephone and email exchanges to answer particular questions. She and her family were unfailingly patient and helpful as I tried to make sure I got her story just right. I never could have done this particular book without Jennifer's help and, frankly, I would not have wanted to. It is Jennifer's story.

Anything else unique or impactful you can share?
​
Many other people have been inspired by Jennifer. Her relative Tom Olin, a disability rights photographer, has over the years taken many stunning portraits of Jennifer in action at demonstrations. The sculptor Gina Klawitter is including a sculpture of Jennifer in her series of people with disabilities. And many teachers and librarians have told me how excited they are to have this book coming out so they can share it with their students.

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All the Way to the Top-best children's ADA book

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"A powerful, empowering story!" - "A necessary testament to the power of children's voices." --Kirkus Reviews "Clear, accessible prose accompanied by Ali's creamily textured digital illustrations...a jumping-off point for conversations." --Publishers Weekly "Pimentel's compelling, present-tense narrative gives the story great immediacy, helping children connect with Jennifer's reactions to physical barriers and social injustice...Still an activist, Jennifer Keelan-Chaffins offers a thought-provoking foreword to this inspiring picture book."

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This article discusses Natalie Du Toit's determination to make it to the olympics even after her leg became amputated.

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Improve your students' reading comprehension with ReadWorks. Access thousands of high-quality, free K-12 articles, and create online assignments with them for your students.

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This picturebook is a story about a young girl named Emma who uses a wheelchair. When her best friend Charley assumes she is unable to do certain things, Emma has to explain to the difficulties and frustrations that come with being labeled as inable.

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Awesomely Emma

A Charley and Emma Story

Awesomely Emma

A Charley and Emma Story

In stock

Quantity discount
For bulk discounting, please call Customer Service at 877-373-0706 and ask about our Corporate Sales Program.

I love being me, because me is an awesome thing to be!

Emma has limb differences, but different isn't bad, sad, or strange. It's just different! But when some accessibility problems get in the way at the local art museum, it ruins the fun of a class trip...and then Emma's friend Charley makes things even worse! In the middle of a really bad day, Emma has to call upon her sense of inner awesome to stand up for herself and teach everyone a lesson about the transformative power of feeling awesome in your own skin.

Amy Webb's follow-up to When Charley Met Emma, Awesomely Emma will have all kids cheering as they learn to see the inner awesome in themselves and those around them.

"A book that will entertain as well as spark important conversations for young people and the adults around them is a rare thing. Awesomely Emma is a vital delight."

-- Brad Montague, creator of Kid President web series, and NYT bestselling author of Kid President's Guide to Being Awesome

"Webb blends art, activism and awareness with an authenticity that made me cheer for Emma and her friends."

-- Jamie Sumner, author of middle-grade novels Roll with It and Tune It Out, and nonfiction books Unbound and Eat, Sleep, Save the World

" Awesomely Emma fills a much needed space in the picture-book marketplace. Webb shares a story of kindness and empowerment, teaching that all bodies are awesome and children can make a difference for good in their communities."

-- Camille Andros, author of the Charlotte the Scientist series and From a Small Seed

"An inclusive depiction of a disabled girl who declares that bodies may be different but none are wrong. With a main character who confidently navigates her world and deals with strong emotions in a positive way, this title has a clear theme of self-empowerment."
-School Library Journal

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Awesomely Emma: A Charley and Emma Story

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In stock Quantity discount For bulk discounting, please call Customer Service at 877-373-0706 and ask about our Corporate Sales Program. I love being me, because me is an awesome thing to be! Emma has limb differences, but different isn't bad, sad, or strange. It's just different!

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Watch this video about people who have been labeled with a disability that have been told they cannot do something because of it.

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Don't Underestimate Me - International Day of People with Disabilities 2018

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Seven-Year-Old Anaya Ellick Proves "Disability is Not Inability"

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Seven-Year-Old Anaya Ellick Proves "Disability is Not Inability"

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This article discusses the accomplishments of a young girl who proved the world wrong.

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First-grader Anaya Ellick with her trophy ( Photo Credit: Greenbrier Christian Academy)

To win a national award for handwriting, especially in this digital age, is an achievement in itself. But what makes Anaya Ellick's accolade extra special is that the seven-year-old accomplished the feat despite having no hands. Even more amazing? The first-grader from Chesapeake, Virginia, who won the prestigious Nicholas Maxim Special Award for Excellence in Manuscript Penmanship, on April 11, does not use prosthetics. The young girl produces her perfect penmanship by standing close to her desk with her pencil firmly gripped between her forearms.

While the impeccable handwriting may surprise the world, Tracy Cox, principal of Greenbrier Christian Academy where Anaya goes to school, is not. In fact, it was Cox who entered the 1 st grader in the annual national handwriting competition organized by educational company Zaner-Bloser. The young girl who competed in the category for students with disabilities had to outshine 50 contestants to win the award. But there was little to worry about. Contest Director Kathleen Wright said the judges, many of who are occupational therapists, were "just stunned" by the quality of Anaya's printing. Wright says, "Her writing sample was comparable to someone who had hands."

Anaya's Winning Entry (Photo Credit: Greenbrier Christian Academy)

The award which comes with a Zaner-Bloser gift certificate for Greenbrier Christian Academy and $1,000 USD cash prize and a trophy for Anaya, is named after Nicholas Maxim, a fifth grader from Readfield, Maine. In 2011, the young boy who is born without his lower arms, submitted a cursive entry so impressive that Zaner-Bloser decided to create a new category to honor physically challenged kids.

Anaya's proud parents, Bianca Middleton and Gary Ellick say the young girl's determination and desire to be independent became apparent when she was just an infant. Unable to hold on to her pacifier with her hands, she figured out how to do it by cupping her arms. As a toddler, she learned to eat with a fork and build with blocks. At 5, she managed to perch a crayon or marker between her hands and draw. Though Anaya was fitted with prosthetic arms for a short time, the young girl decided she was better off with her natural ones and discarded them. As it turns out, she was right! Though winning the handwriting award was thrilling, Anaya has already moved on to her next goal - She now wants to master karate!

Resources: zaner-bloser.com,pilotonline.com,npr.org

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Seven-Year-Old Anaya Ellick Proves "Disability Is Not Inability"

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To win a national award for handwriting, especially in this digital age, is an achievement in itself. But what makes Anaya Ellick's accolade extra special is that the seven-year-old accomplished the feat despite having no hands. Even more amazing?

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How do you think those with disabilities felt when they were only seen as their disability? Do you think because of this, their disability became a larger part of their identity? Have students collaborate with a friend on  Thinglink to create a response that emulates their thinking and represents various perspectives of characters we've read about.

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This is a biography about Helen Keller's life and how her world changed when she became deaf and blind.

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I am Helen Keller by Brad Meltzer: 9780525428510 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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We can all be heroes. That's the inspiring message of this New York Times Bestselling picture book biography series from historian and author Brad Meltzer When Helen Keller was very young, she...

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Watch this video about what makes different cultures around the world different and unique!

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After reading the various texts about abilities, take students on a field trip around the community. Visit grocery stores, the library, local shoppes, and more and ask students to determine if the places in the community are accessible to all kinds of abilities. After the field trip, have students write down what kinds of things they saw and have them determine whether or not there was accessibility for all people. Have students write letters to those in the community who do not accessible buildings that accommodate to all kinds of abilities.

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Students will read the article on Wonderopolis to dig deeper into the definition of culture.

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Today's Wonder of the Day is about something that's around you all the time. You may not always see it, but it affects just about every aspect of life. That's right-today, we're learning about culture!

What is culture? It's a hard word to define. Over the years, experts in many fields have given different explanations of what culture is. Essentially, "culture" describes the many practices, , and that a group of people share in common.

Cultures come in many shapes and sizes. Often, cultures share a geographical region. People on the same continent or in the same country, state, or city may share culture. Your school may have its own culture, and so might your family. People in the same age group may also have a culture. The same can be said for online communities. Culture can also be shared by people of the same race or , regardless of location.

Many parts of life make up culture. Most fit into two groups: nonmaterial and material. Nonmaterial parts of culture are things that you can't touch. This includes practices and .

For example, the shared by a group are a nonmaterial part of culture. Language is also in this group, as is religion. It also includes traditions, like holidays and family gatherings.

Many material items are also part of culture. These are things that are made by people in a culture. They may also how those people live or think. Some examples are art, literature, and music. The food and clothing common among a group are also part of their culture. So are the forms of technology they use.

Cultures can change over time. This happens when new people enter the culture and bring outside practices with them. Change can also occur when two cultures meet. However, many groups of people today still share many parts of their culture with their ancient . This makes the and traditions they carry on very special to them.

Everyone should be proud of their culture. However, it's important to remember that no one set of traditions is better or more important than any other. The attitude that your own culture is superior to all others is called ethnocentrism . History is full of examples of times when ethnocentrism has led to violence and genocide. Always strive to the of other people and follow the golden rule.

How would you describe your culture? That can be a difficult question, especially if you haven't thought much about it before. If you're not sure, talk with your family members and others close to you. Together, you may be able to identify the practices that make up your culture!

CCRA.R.1, CCRA.R.2, CCRA.R.4, CCRA.R.10, CCRA.W.2, CCRA.W.4, CCRA.W.9, CCRA.W.10, CCRA.L.1, CCRA.L.2, CCRA.L.3, CCRA.L.6, CCRA.SL.1, CCRA.SL.2

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Today's Wonder of the Day is about something that's around you all the time. You may not always see it, but it affects just about every aspect of life. That's right-today, we're learning about culture! What is culture? It's a hard word to define.

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After reading the article on Wonderopolis, respond to the questions, "What is culture?" and "What's our school's culture like?" and "What's your personal culture like?" in the class's Voicethread. Have students comment on one or two peer's Voicethread slides to make connections and extend learning.

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Your Name is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow

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Your Name is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow

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This picturebook is about the history, culture and magic behind beautifully unique names. This story serves a reminder to embrace your name and the uniqueness that it is!

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WRITTEN BY JAMILAH THOMPKINS-BIGELOW AND ILLUSTRATED BY LUISA URIBE
★ "This lovely celebration of African American culture, featuring a Muslim family, offers a fresh way to look at the tradition of creating new names. . . A delightful celebration." -- Kirkus Reviews, starred review ★ "Simultaneously imparts a strong spark of sensibility and envelops readers in a warm embrace through an overdue, crucial lesson about the significance of honoring every individual's cultural identity..." -- School Library Journal, starred review
Frustrated by a day full of teachers and classmates mispronouncing her beautiful name, a little girl tells her mother she never wants to come back to school. In response, the girl's mother teaches her about the musicality of African, Asian, Black-American, Latinx, and Middle Eastern names on their lyrical walk home through the city. Empowered by this newfound understanding, the young girl is ready to return the next day to share her knowledge with her class. Your Name is a Song is a celebration to remind all of us about the beauty, history, and magic behind names.
ISBN: 978-1943147724
RETAIL PRICE USD $16.99 · Full Color Hardcover Picture Book

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Your Name Is a Song - The Innovation Press

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WRITTEN BY JAMILAH THOMPKINS-BIGELOW AND ILLUSTRATED BY LUISA URIBE ★ "This lovely celebration of African American culture, featuring a Muslim family, offers a fresh way to look at the tradition of creating new names. . . A delightful celebration."

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This picturebook is about Unhei, a young girl who just moved from Korea to America and is attending a new school. Afraid others may not be able to pronounce her name, she decides she wants to be called a different name. But, having a hard time choosing, Unhei decides its best to embrace her own, culturally unique name and teach the class how to pronounce it.

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"Unhei's reflection and inner strength are noteworthy; cultural details freshen the story, and Choi's gleaming, expressive paintings are always a treasure." - The New York Times

Arkansas Diamond Primary Book Master List WINNER 2003

Arizona Young Readers Award NOMINEE 2005

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The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi: 9780440417996 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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A heartwarming story about the new girl in school, and how she learns to appreciate her Korean name. Being the new kid in school is hard enough, but what happens when nobody can pronounce your name?...

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Alma and How She Got Her Name by Juana Martinez-Neal

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Alma and How She Got Her Name by Juana Martinez-Neal

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This picturebook is about Alma, a young girl who is curious about her name. She has 6 names after all. Alma learns that she is named after multiple relatives in her family. Her father helps her learn more about her heritage and culture and she learns that her name has a wonderful story and meaning.

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Martinez-Neal brings her gentle story to life through beautiful graphite and colored pencil artwork, set against cream-colored backgrounds. Soft blue and red details pop against the charcoal scenes, which perfectly reflect the snapshots of Alma's family. While Alma feels enriched by learning her family's history, she is also empowered by the knowledge that she will give her name, Alma, its own story.
-Booklist (starred review)

Martinez-Neal's first outing as author is a winner-her velvety and largely monochromatic pencil drawings, punctuated with cherry red, teem with emotional intimacy. It's an origin story that envelops readers like a hug.
-Publishers Weekly (starred review)

The softly colored images and curvilinear shapes that embrace the figures evoke a sense of warmth and affection. At the story's end, the only tale readers have not heard is Alma's. "You will make your own story," states her father. A beautifully illustrated, tender story to be shared with all children, sure to evoke conversations about their names.
-School Library Journal (starred review)

Mostly monochromatic against a cream background, the illustrations-print transfers with graphite and colored pencils-are delightful, capturing the distinctive essences of Alma's many namesakes...A celebration of identity, family and belonging.
-Kirkus Reviews

Throughout, grayscale print transfer illustrations have a soft visual texture, and subtle colored-pencil highlights in pinks and blues enliven each spread. The pictures end up stealing the show in their depiction of the sweet closeness between Alma and her father. They also convey a subtle, supernatural connection between Alma and her ancestors, whose images in the family photos make eye contact with her outside of her father's awareness.
-The Horn Book

As artist, her mostly black-and-white graphite and colored pencil drawings with splashes of red (suggesting now) and blue (capturing then) provide an additional, enhancing narrative: the family's Peruvian roots, Alma's avian and floral interests, her bilingual drawings, her historically inspired style sense, even a peek at Esperanza's worldly treasures...Names are so much more than a collection of letters and sounds, Martinez-Neal reminds. The book's final words, "What story would you like to tell?" become an invitation for readers to share and claim each of their own, distinctive stories, histories and identities.
-Shelf Awareness for Readers

Every piece of Alma's name, she discovers, comes to her from someone in her family, and, as she and her father talk, Alma feels a new sense of connection...Touching on cultural themes central to the recent Pixar movie "Coco," this is a tender outing for children ages 4-8.
-The Wall Street Journal

A great book for introducing family history and the importance of our place within it.
-Story Monsters Ink

Caldecott Honor Book HONOR 2019

Ezra Jack Keats New Writer/Illustrator Award HONOR 2019

Publishers Weekly Best Children's Book of the Year AWARD 2018

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Alma and How She Got Her Name by Juana Martinez-Neal: 9780763693558 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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A 2019 Caldecott Honor Book What's in a name? For one little girl, her very long name tells the vibrant story of where she came from - and who she may one day be. If you ask her, Alma Sofia...

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Have students interview their parents about their names. Ask why their name was chosen and if it has any cultural significance. Then, have students ask other questions regarding their family's culture. Have students make text-to-self connections between their name and the stories we have read so far. Have students record their post interview reflection and upload it to Youtube.

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This autobiographical picturebook tells a moving story about children of immigrant parents who form deeper connections with their heritage and culture.

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"Wang's multilayered, poetic text allows anger, guilt and grief to coexist with love and hope. Chin's captivating watercolor art, executed with a mix of Chinese and Western techniques, combines meticulous, gut-wrenching realism with dreamlike panoramas."-The New York Times

"Children often don't understand why their parents act as they do; parents often forget to explain. Watercress reminds us of the importance of filling in those gaps."-The Wall Street Journal

"An understated, visually stunning exploration of memory and family history."-The Boston Globe

★ "An adept gem of a picture book"-Publishers Weekly, Starred Review
★ "Understated, deep, and heart-rending-bring tissues." -Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

★ "Simple text and beautiful illustrations pack a strong emotional punch . . . A powerful story sure to awaken empathy and curiosity" -School Library Journal, Starred Review

★ "this quietly affecting book encourages honesty, communication, and sharing of family history."-The Horn Book, Starred Review

★ " Watercress is a delicate and deeply felt exploration of memory, trauma and family." -BookPage, Starred Review

★ "It's a deft exploration of the information and emotion gap between parents, especially immigrant parents, and children, and it may give space for kids to learn more about their own family history and customs . . ." -The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, Starred Review

★ "Through powerful poetry and exquisite illustrations, the daughter of immigrants relates an emotional childhood memory that opened the door to her Chinese roots."-Shelf Awareness, Starred Review

"The story reveals the chasms that can separate first-generation immigrant parents from their Americanized children and how confronting past traumas from another country and time can bring a family closer together. Chin's illustrations masterfully bring to life the vast cornfields and colors of rural America."

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Watercress by Andrea Wang: 9780823446247 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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Caldecott Medal Winner Newbery Honor Book APALA Award Winner A story about the power of sharing memories-including the painful ones-and the way our heritage stays with and shapes us, even...

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The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad

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The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad

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This picturebook tells the story of a young girl named Faizah and her sister Asiya on their first day at school. Instead of how special the first day of school was supposed to be, Asiya is teased and made fun of for wearing her hijab. Faizah and Asiya work together to be embrace their culture and identity and leave behind hurtful words.

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THE INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A powerful, vibrantly illustrated story about the first day of school--and two sisters on one's first day of hijab--by...

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This picturebook is a story about Lola, who desperately wants to remember where she comes from. Lola journeys through her neighborhood to ask more questions about the island where she's from. With helpful neighbors and family, Lola forms deep connections with her cultural past and understands that the island will always be a part of her.

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★ "With his tenacious, curious heroine and a voice that's chatty, passionate, wise, and loving, Díaz entices readers to think about a fundamental human question: what does it mean to belong?"- Publishers Weekly, starred review

★ "A sensitive and beautiful story of culture, identity, and belonging-a superb picture book outing for Díaz and one to be shared broadly in a variety of settings." - School Library Journal, starred review

★ "This important title will be enjoyed by young children and may spark many significant discussions." - Booklist, starred review

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Islandborn by Junot Díaz: 9780735229860 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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From New York Times bestseller and Pulitzer Prize winner Junot Díaz comes a debut picture book about the magic of memory and the infinite power of the imagination. A 2019 Pura Belpré Honor...

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What's The Big Idea About Anthropology?: Studying Cultures

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What's The Big Idea About Anthropology?: Studying Cultures

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This article explores the definition of culture and provides an inside scoop as to why culture is so important to study.

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Improve your students' reading comprehension with ReadWorks. Access thousands of high-quality, free K-12 articles, and create online assignments with them for your students.

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Have students research a culture that differs from their own and display their findings in the class Padlet. Have students answer questions like

What culture did you choose to research and why?

What does this culture value?

What are some stereotypes that people may think of when they think of this culture?

How is this culture represented in the media?

What parts of this culture did you identify with? How do you think being a part of this culture may create someone's unique identity?

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There's Only One You by Deborah Hembrook and Kathryn Heling

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There's Only One You by Deborah Hembrook and Kathryn Heling

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This picturebook reassures children that being who you are is perfectly you!

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This inclusive picture book rejoices in the specialness of each person's beauty and ability. "Affirming and welcome"-Kirkus

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This picturebook tells a story about embracing who you are. The book encourages students to love all the small details about themselves that make them different and unique.

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Heartfelt and timeless, Remarkably You is an inspirational manifesto about all of the things-little or small, loud or quiet-that make us who we are. Great for sharing and gifting, especially to celebrate your remarkable graduate.

New York Times bestselling author Pat Zietlow Miller celebrates individuality in her remarkable picture book about the beauty of being yourself.
You might go unnoticed, or shine like a star,
but wherever you go and whoever you are...
don't change how you act to be just like the rest.
Believe in yourself and the things you do best.
With encouraging text and exuberant illustrations by Patrice Barton, readers will delight in all the ways they can be their remarkable selves.

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Heartfelt and timeless, Remarkably You is an inspirational manifesto about all of the things-little or small, loud or quiet-that make us who we are. Great for sharing and gifting, especially to celebrate your remarkable graduate. New York Times bestselling author Pat Zietlow Miller

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Have students examine the photo. What do you see? How does this relate to identity?

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What does identity mean to you? Have students respond through the class' Google Docs to record their answers. Have students read their peers responses and make comments and connections to their thoughts.

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This picturebook tells the story about embracing who you are in hopes that others will be accepting. This story shows how our differences can create unique spaces for one and other, like at school.

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* "National Book Award winner and national treasure Jacqueline Woodson teams up with two-time Pura Belpré Award recipient Rafael López to deliver an empowering message to any child who has ever felt too different. . . . Woodson and López offer a needed message of comfort to preschool and early elementary students. Woodson's lulling free verse reassures the reader that the world will 'make some space,' while López's dreamy, near-translucent mixed-media illustrations thrum with playful joy. This gentle, powerful ode to diversity and acceptance belongs with all children."-Shelf Awareness, starred review

* "A beautiful and inclusive story that encourages children to find the beauty in their own lives and share it with the world. . . . Each child feels very alone until they begin to share their stories and discover that it is nearly always possible to find someone a little like you. López's vibrant illustrations bring the characters' hidden and unspoken thoughts to light with fantastic, swirling color. Shifting hues and textures across the page convey their deep loneliness and then slowly transition into bright hopeful possibilities. Full-bleed illustrations on every page are thick with collaged patterns and textures that pair perfectly with melodic prose that begs to be read aloud. . . . There's an essential acknowledgment that everyone will experience a time when no one is quite like them, when they can't find their voice, or when they feel very alone. Woodson's superlative text sees each character turn that moment of desolation into an opportunity to be brave and find hope in what they have in common. This masterful story deserves a place in every library."- "A bright jewel-toned palette and clever details, including a literal reflection of a better future, reveal hope and pride. . . . This reassuring, lyrical book feels like a big hug from a wise aunt as she imparts the wisdom of the world in order to calm trepidatious young children: One of these things is not like the other, and that is actually what makes all the difference. A must-have book about the power of one's voice and the friendships that emerge when you are yourself." "Woodson's poetic lines give power to each child's experience. . . . López paints the book's array of children as students in the same classroom; patterns and colors on the children's clothing and the growing things around them fill the spreads with life. Woodson's gentle, lilting story and López's artistry create a stirring portrait of the courage it takes to be oneself." -Publishers Weekly, starred review

* "Woodson's lyrical text is gently reassuring as it moves between broad discussion and specific examples of difference and discomfort, which emphasize children moving across cultures but will speak to children from all backgrounds and experiences. Mixed-media illustrations . . . combine bold with soft colors and textures in a slightly shaded tropical palette; compositions employ creative and insightful perspectives to suit the characters' feelings. . . . The artist frequently incorporates a ruler into the illustrations, which perhaps speaks to the children's perceptions of how they measure up to others. This lovely and sensitive treatment of adjustment deserves a spot in any collection for youngsters."-The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, starred review

"Woodson catches the uncertainty, even fear, that comes with new situations. But her lyrical language also captures the moment when confidence sparks and friendships are born. . . . The bold, bright artwork features a diverse cast of kids. . . . The important message plays out in a striking design that mixes the everyday with flights of fancy. Woodson, a recent National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, is one of kidlit's brightest stars, and this should find lots of eager hands."-

"What will it take for a child who feels different to share her stories? . . . Like Woodson's memoir Brown Girl Dreaming, this story places great value on literacy, reading, and imagination. The matte-finished pages feature illustrations in vivid, brilliant colors, with repeated appearances of flying birds and lush, twining vines and flowers."-

ALA Notable Children's Book WINNER

ALSC Notable Children's Books WINNER

Jane Addams Children's Book Award WINNER

New York Times Editors' Choice WINNER

Notable Books for a Global Society Award WINNER

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The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson: 9780399246531 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! Featured in its own episode in the Netflix original show Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices! National Book Award winner Jacqueline Woodson and two-time Pura Belpré...

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Watch this video with students and hold discussions about what makes them unique by focusing on their personal values.

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Wellbeing For Children: Identity And Values

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Watch the video about students who share their different cultural traditions. After the video, hold discussions about the students' cultures in the video. What was interesting? Did anyone know of these traditions before watching the video? Does anyone celebrate similar traditions? Have students participate in their own cultural show and tell by bringing in/sharing their own unique custom/item from home and sharing it with the class the next day.

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Kids Share Their Cultural Tradition | Show & Tell | Hiho Kids

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This article talks about embracing yourself for your unique abilities and physical appearance.

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Many teenagers face judgment from their peers. But not all of them have the courage to share their personal stories in public.

This year, Anushka Nair of Hinsdale, Illinois, and Lindsay Pierce of Washington, D.C., won the RBC "Flaunt It" Award. Meg Zucker, who is my mother, created the award in 2016 with funding from RBC Foundation-USA.

The award, which includes a scholarship, provides a platform for young artists and writers to celebrate their own differences. It is part of the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, a national program that has recognized the outstanding work of creative teens since 1923.
OVERCOMING STEREOTYPES
Anushka and Lindsay, both 16, were honored at the Art & Writing Awards ceremony on June 8 at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Anushka won for her painting, "Shifting Perspective" (pictured below), which explores her inner struggles with body image.

Lindsay was honored for her essay, "Hands Off My Identity: Dealing With Difference in a Diversifying Community." Lindsay's essay probes the microaggressions that she experienced as a black student at a predominantly white school. Microagressions are comments or actions, intentional or not, that are hurtful to a marginalized group.

Although Lindsay's classmates did not always realize it, their comments about her physical traits shook her self-confidence. Rather than isolate herself, Lindsay chose to respond through engagement. "Uncomfortable interaction with people who are different from you is the only way to become more mindful," she said.

Lindsay offered reassuring advise to her younger self. "It's going to get better," she said, "because there are role models waiting and a world of confidence to come."
ACCEPTING ONESELF
In her work, Anushka depicts the challenges of accepting oneself. "Body image struggles are especially difficult to raise adequate awareness and empathy for," she said. "It's an incredibly nuanced and complex situation when a young woman is trying to love her body and be proud of it."

What did Anushka enjoy the most about creating her painting? "I have a very, very strong connection with the model I picked," Anushka said. "I'm very connected with the issues that she often has to deal with."

Anushka also suggests in her work that knowledge is power. "Media, literature, and pop culture can do much to empower young women to be proud of their appearance," she said. "Many female figures are doing what they can to spread body positivity. Representation for adolescent girls is key."

Anushka and Lindsay hope that their daring work will inspire other young people who face challenges to express themselves. "Being open to my surroundings instead of retreating inward," Anushka said, "helped me accept myself."

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Many teenagers face judgment from their peers. But not all of them have the courage to share their personal stories in public. This year, Anushka Nair of Hinsdale, Illinois, and Lindsay Pierce of Washington, D.C., won the RBC "Flaunt It" Award. Meg Zucker, who is my mother, created the award in 2016 with funding from RBC Foundation-USA.

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Have students draw a self portrait, labeling their physical appearances such as eye color, hair color, skin color, etc. Additionally, have students write or type a short response explaining what they value and how that makes you, you! As a class, create an art wall with everyone's self-portraits and short responses. Hold discussions about what makes everyone unique, creating their own identity.

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This picturebook tells the story of a  red crayon who has never felt red. Others try to help him be red, but nothing seems to work. With a deep desire to be who he feels most himself, this crayon goes on a journey to realize he's been blue all along.

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A blue crayon mistakenly labeled as "red" suffers an identity crisis in this picture book by the New York Times-bestselling creator of My Heart Is Like a Zoo. This funny, heartwarming, colorful picture book about finding the courage to be true to your inner self can be read on multiple levels, and it offers something for everyone.

Funny, insightful, and colorful, Red: A Crayon's Story is about being true to your inner self and following your own path despite obstacles that may come your way. Red will appeal to fans of Lois Ehlert, Eric Carle, and The Day the Crayons Quit, and makes a great gift for readers of any age!

Red has a bright red label, but he is, in fact, blue. His teacher tries to help him be red (let's draw strawberries!), his mother tries to help him be red by sending him out on a playdate with a yellow classmate (go draw a nice orange!), and the scissors try to help him be red by snipping his label so that he has room to breathe. But Red is miserable. He just can't be red, no matter how hard he tries!

Finally, a brand-new friend offers a brand-new perspective, and Red discovers what readers have known all along. He's blue!

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A blue crayon mistakenly labeled as "red" suffers an identity crisis in this picture book by the New York Times-bestselling creator of My Heart Is Like a Zoo. This funny, heartwarming, colorful picture book about finding the courage to be true to your inner self can be read on

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This picturebook is a story about an avocado who questions what he truly is, a fruit or a vegetable? Just as Avocado starts to feel like he doesn't belong, he finds a group of others who embrace his identity and explain that they're different too!

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"A delightful tale to help readers figure out where they belong, and, if a wise tomato is any indication, why that question may not even matter." - School Library Journal

"A tale that will entertain young readers for its witty wordplay. . . . This amusing book will tickle ribs and provoke thought in equal measure. . . . A charmingly fruitful journey.- Kirkus

"A smorgasbord of food puns makes this whimsical romp through the grocery store a true treat. . . . A celebration of nonconformity."- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Get the latest updates from Momoko Abe

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Avocado Asks by Momoko Abe: 9780593177938 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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"A delightful tale to help readers figure out where they belong, and, if a wise tomato is any indication, why that question may not even ­matter." - School Library Journal "A tale that will entertain young readers for its witty wordplay. . . . This amusing book will tickle ribs and provoke thought in equal measure.

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It Feels Good to Be Yourself by Theresa Thorn

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It Feels Good to Be Yourself by Theresa Thorn

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This picturebook introduces the idea of gender identity in a way that is simple and easy to understand.

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Some people are boys. Some people are girls. Some people are both, neither, or somewhere in between.

This sweet, straightforward exploration of gender identity will give children a fuller understanding of themselves and others. With child-friendly language and vibrant art, It Feels Good to Be Yourself provides young readers and parents alike with the vocabulary to discuss this important topic with sensitivity.

Theresa's proceeds from the sale of this book are going to support Gender Spectrum, which works to create gender sensitive and inclusive environments for children and teens.

From the book:

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Some people are boys. Some people are girls. Some people are both, neither, or somewhere in between. This sweet, straightforward exploration of gender identity will give children a fuller understanding of themselves and others. With child-friendly language and vibrant art, It Feels Good to Be Yourself provides young readers and parents alike with the vocabulary to discuss this important topic with sensitivity.

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They She He Me: Free to Be! by Maya Christina Gonzalez

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They She He Me: Free to Be! by Maya Christina Gonzalez

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This picturebook provides a deeper understanding of pronouns and how different people use them to identify themselves.

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"The authors have succeeded in creating a gorgeous and much-needed picture book about pronouns and gender fluidity. A beautiful and gentle exploration of identity and kindness." - School Library Journal, starred review

How do you daily confirm and celebrate gender fluidity when the he and she binary is so prevalent in EVERYTHING, everywhere, all the time!?

Pronouns serve as a familiar starting point for kids and grown-ups to expand ideas about gender and celebrate personal expression with fun imagery that provides a place to meet and play.
Award winning children's book author and artist Maya Gonzalez is joined by her partner, Matthew, in their first children's book together as queer parents.

Raising their youngest kid in a gender fluid, free space in the heart of San Francisco's Castro district where visions of drag and gender non-conformity are known to freely flaunt, did not stop the insidious "she" "he" assumptions and stereotypes from infiltrating their kid's world.

With virtually no reflection for different gender presentations in children's books available, together they created a book to do just that. They She He Me, Free to Be shows many gender presentations under each pronoun and invites even more. A go-to place to help keep the conversations alive, break down assumptions of who is "she" or "he" and expand beyond the binary to include "they" and more.

The back offers a playful narrative about pronouns, inviting kids to know themselves inside and out, claim the pronouns that express the spirit of who they are and respect that in others. Also included is some discussion for grown-ups on how to hold a supportive space for kids (and for themselves).

Check out this short stop motion film animating some of the back material from They She He Me: Free to Be! using our Playing with Pronouns educational cards.

They She He Me also pairs perfect with, The Gender Wheel, a story about Bodies and Gender for every body and They, She, He easy as ABC. Together these books offer a firm foundation of radical gender inclusion for parents, educators and caregivers to share with their kids.

The Gender Wheel® books support The Gender Wheel Curriculum, a holistic, nature-based approach to understanding gender. Inclusive perspectives and practices at every level of the curriculum support a strong sense of self, while creating systemic change in the world at large.

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Free to Be! busting gender stereotypes and assumptions one pronoun at a time! "a gorgeous and much-needed picture book about pronouns and gender fluidity."

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Take a look at this image. Turn and talk with your classmates about the different pronouns you see. Are you surprised? What pronouns do you like to use to identify yourself?

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This picturebook is a story about a unicorn who was born into a family of narwhals. When realizing there are others just like themself, the unicorn takes comfort in their own identity.

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"The message is an appealing one that could speak to many family situations relating to multiple identities...feel-good story"

- Kirkus Reviews, November 15, 2016

"Adorable characters trigger smiles throughout"

- Publisher's Weekly, December 2016

"A storyteller's pacing and winning characters, resulting in an appealing book. Read it for a whimsical storytime or provide some text-to-text connections for older students with Amy Krouse Rosenthal's Uni the Unicorn and Bob Shea's Unicorn Thinks He's Pretty Great....this title is highly recommended."

- School Library Journal, January 2017

"Swap the tired Ugly Duckling for this delightfully absurd tale of knowing who you are and where you came from."

- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, January 2017

"Sima's bubbly, adorable artwork is nearly irresistible...This endearing tale will warm many a heart."

- Booklist, January 2017

"This book is painfully adorable...The story is about finding your own way to belong,..It's just beautiful."

- Shelf Awareness Pro, January 24, 2017

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"The message is an appealing one that could speak to many family situations relating to multiple identities...feel-good story" - Kirkus Reviews, November 15, 2016 "Adorable characters trigger smiles throughout" - Publisher's Weekly, December 2016 "A storyteller's pacing and winning characters, resulting in an appealing book.

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In this interactive video, students learn more about the definition of self identity and answer questions about what makes them unique and special.

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SEL Video Lesson of the Week (week 9) Self-Identity

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Has there ever been a time where you feel like you don't fit in based on your identity? Why? Have students hold small group discussions about how this has affected their identity. Additionally, ask students, who are you at home? Who are you at school? Who are you in the community? Have students individually create a Canva flyer that displays their own identity at home, school and in the community.

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From the Stars in the Sky to the Fish in the Sea by Kai Cheng Thom

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From the Stars in the Sky to the Fish in the Sea by Kai Cheng Thom

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This picturebook displays the beauty in being yourself and the journey or self-discovery and identity.

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A magical gender variant child brings transformation and change to the world around them thanks to their mother's enduring love.

In the magical time between night and day, when both the sun and the moon are in the sky, a child is born in a little blue house on a hill. And Miu Lan is not just any child, but one who can change into any shape they can imagine. The only problem is they can't decide what to be: a boy or a girl? A bird or a fish? A flower or a shooting star? At school, though, they must endure inquisitive looks and difficult questions from the other children, and have trouble finding friends who will accept them for who they are. But they find comfort in the loving arms of their mother, who always offers them the same loving refrain: "whatever you dream of / i believe you can be / from the stars in the sky to the fish in the sea. "

In this captivating, beautifully imagined picture book about gender, identity, and the acceptance of the differences between us, Miu Lan faces many questions about who they are and who they may be. But one thing's for sure: no matter who this child becomes, their mother will love them just the same.

Ages 3 to 8.

This book's themes can resonate with any child who feels excluded (or excludes others) and can also open up conversations about nonbinary gender identities. A relevant tale of love and acceptance that can find a home in any children's collection. - Kirkus Reviews

It's important for youngsters questioning their gender to see themselves in literature, and for other kids to see and more or less accept that fluidity. More generally, Mui Lan is always changing, and that sounds like the way all kids should be. - Montreal Review of Books

Miu Lan's tale is a unique, magical take on differences in gender identity and accepting diversity. - Resource Links

An exquisitely rendered picture book about gender and identity . .. The illustrations, by Wai-Yant Li and Kai Yun Ching, are saturated with colour and sparkling with invention, and Thom's gentle, rhythmic text resonates like a wise old fairy tale that has been told and retold, and like the mother's song, passed down from one generation to the next. - Quill and Quire (STARRED REVIEW)

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From the Stars in the Sky to the Fish in the Sea

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A magical gender variant child brings transformation and change to the world around them thanks to their mother's enduring love. In the magical time between night and day, when both the sun and the moon are in the sky, a child is born in a little blue house on a hill.

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This video provides clear and simple definitions of various ways people define their gender identity.

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What is gender identity? Have students create a Glogster with images, text, and audio or video displaying their understanding of gender identity while also creating a display of their own gender identity. Have students draw from the texts they have read so far to make connections.

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Who Are You?: The Kids Guide to Gender Identity by Brook Pessin-Whedbee

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Who Are You?: The Kids Guide to Gender Identity by Brook Pessin-Whedbee

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This picturebook reinforces the idea that children can choose what gender they identify with regardless of what gender they were assigned at birth.

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What do you like? How do you feel? Who are you?
This brightly illustrated children's book helps anyone ages 3+ understand and celebrate gender diversity, with straightforward language for talking about how we experience gender: our body, our expression, and our identity. Includes an interactive wheel and a guide for adults!
"A solid package for families and educators..." - School Library Journal

"...easy-to-understand language for all ages." - The Booklist

Children are teaching us that gender comes in all kinds of shapes and colors, rather than two boxes, and Brook Pessin-Whedbee has given us the wonderful gift of Who Are You? to help all little people learn just how this works and how they can know their own gender. And for the adults - Who Are You? ends with an inspiring discussion guide for parents, for teachers, for anyone who wants to support children in their gender creativity.
- Diane Ehrensaft, Ph.D., author of 'The Gender Creative Child' and 'Gender Born, Gender Made' and Director of Mental Health, Child and Adolescent Gender Center

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has been featured in . Author Brook Pessin-Whedbee has also been celebrated as a "Bay Area innovator" on Who Are You? Bay Area Parents magazine and as one of BUSTLE's 11 books with lessons on kindness and as one of BOOK RIOT's 8 picture books that deconstruct gender norms KALX's Method to the Madness.

Who Are You? is one of ScaryMommy's top 12 books for progressive parents and one of Pragmatic Mom's top 10 Groundbreaking LGBTQ Children's Books.

Read more at THE BOOKSELLER about the new Gender-diverse book list from Jessica Kingsley Publishers!

And check out this interview with author, Brook Pessin-Whedbee and enGender's Sandra Collins for Gender Spectrum's Story Time.

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PRIDE: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag by Rob Sanders

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PRIDE: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag by Rob Sanders

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This empowering nonfiction picturebook tells the story of Harvey Milk and how he created a movement to change the world's views on the LGBTQ community in hopes to create a brighter, more inclusive future.

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Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag by Rob Sanders: 9780399555312 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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Celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Rainbow Pride Flag with the very first picture book to tell its remarkable and inspiring history! In this deeply moving and empowering true story, young readers will...

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After reading the two stories, have students think-pair-share about how they can take action to help those who are misrepresented and mistreated in society. Consider writing letters to local politicians, reading stories to spread awareness to the school community, or creating an infographic to pass out in the community regarding those of the LGBTQ community who are misrepresented and or mistreated.

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This novel surrounds a young child named George who identifies as a girl named Melissa. This novel shows the hardships of being accepted as transgender by both family, friends and peers.

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Alex Gino loves glitter, ice cream, gardening, awe-ful puns, and stories that reflect the diversity and complexity of being alive. George was their first novel. George was a winner of the Children's Stonewall Award, the Lambda Literary Award, and the Children's Choice Book Awards, among a host of others.

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Audrey Mason-Hyde's Take on Gender Identity

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Audrey Mason-Hyde's Take on Gender Identity

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On this short Ted Talk, Audrey discusses her gender identity, how she has been ostracized in public, and how we can all ask ourselves, why does it matter what gender someone else is?

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Toilets, bowties, gender and me | Audrey Mason-Hyde | TEDxAdelaide

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Have students watch one gender story, where real people explain their personal connections to gender identity and how they dealt with their own sense of identity.

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Gender Spectrum | StoriesGender Spectrum

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How can we be more mindful and respectful about someone's gender identity? Have students work in groups to determine different ways that they can be supportive of those with varying gender identities. Have students create and publish a YouTube video to take advocate for gender identity.

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Have students create an individual Padlet that is all about their identity. Have students start this Padlet now, creating one text block about their definition of identity and another text block about their own identity. This might include a photo of their self portrait, a typed description of their physical abilities, hobbies, emotions, characteristics, etc.

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Have students add to their individual Padlet walls including their unique cultural identity.

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Have students add to their individual Padlet walls including their gender identity.

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Have students add to the individual Padlet walls including their ability identity. Once students have completed their identity Padlet, allow students to share with the class and hold discussions. (include action at the end)