School of Education Events
[PAST EVENT] A History of Diversity in Children's Literature and Why It's More Important Than Ever
Location
School of Education, Holly Conference Room301 Monticello Ave
Williamsburg, VA 23185Map this location
A considerable body of research about children's literature shows that despite calls for increased representations of diversity in books for children, the canon remains largely White, able-bodied, cis-gender, and straight. Educational professionals for decades have understood that students in all classrooms deserve to see themselves and their own lived experiences in the books that are shared with them. Further, children of all ages can learn about the lives of individuals who are different from them through diverse representations in literature. At this presentation, Dr. Young will share a brief history of diversity in children’s literature, illustrate the impact sharing (and not sharing) diverse representations in books can have on all students, and offer practical suggestions for participants in how they can improve their knowledge and use of diverse books.
Dr. Craig A. Young is a professor of Middle Level, Secondary, and K12 Education in the College of Education and Human Studies at Commonwealth University of PA - Bloomsburg. He teaches undergraduate preservice teachers in their ELA and social studies methods courses. His research focuses on diversity in children’s literature, particularly LGBTQIA+ representation in picture books.
Sponsored by: The School of Education Inclusive Excellence Mini-Grant Program
Contact
[[w|keconradi,Kristin Conradi Smith]], Associate Professor, Curriculum & Instruction