Today’s world is going through a paradigm shift in terms of gender diversity. The gender definition is no longer restricted to males and females. It also includes people who identify themselves as trans, non-binary or genderqueer. Unfortunately, irrespective of their gender, some people have to still fight the stereotypes to live a life of dignity.
Hence, it is crucial to teach your children about gender sensitivity so that they do not discriminate against any person and accept their differences with respect. However, gender sensitivity is a sensitive subject and it could be difficult for you to explain to children.
The following books will help you to start conversations on gender sensitivity with your children:
Pink and Blue
Author: Ritu Vaishnav
Age Group: 3-5 years
Why do girls play house and boys play cricket? Why boys shouldn’t cry? Why girls can’t kick? Why girls can’t have short hair and boys can’t have long hair? A thought-provoking book on gender sensitivity, it encourages girls and boys to question these age-old gender stereotypes.
Bedtime Rainbows
Author: Devyn Smith
Age Group: 4-8 years
This book narrates the stories of LGBTQ families and their relationship dynamics. Your children can learn about the life of children of same-sex or transgender parents in terms of school life, social interactions, etc.
Ritu Weds Chandni
Author: Ameya Narvankar
Age Group: 6+ years
This book handles themes such as LGBTQ and same-sex weddings in an empowering way. It beautifully drives home the point that one can find true love in anyone and there shouldn’t be any prejudice against them. Same-sex marriages deserve equal support and acceptance from the family and society.
Girl Power! Indian Women Who Broke the Rules
Author: Neha Hiranandani
Age Group: 8-12 years
This book narrates the story of 50 Indian women who smashed patriarchy or overcame their struggles to carve a niche for themselves. From Arunima who became the world’s first female amputee to climb the peak to Subhasini who built the first hospital in the village from her savings as a vegetable seller, the book truly depicts girl power in its all glory!
Big Hero, Size Zero
Authors: Anusha Harihariharan and Sowmya Rajendran
Age Group: 13-14 years
A powerful book on gender and gender equality, ‘Big Hero, Size Zero’ speaks to teens in a language they will understand. The book dives into questions such as what is gender identity, what role family/society/country plays in gender, etc. It also explains the difference between sex and gender. The book also has some think prompts and other interesting facts on gender stereotypes for the readers.
All these books are easily available in physical bookstores, libraries, online stores and Amazon Kindle.
