Diversity Bookbags
First Grade
Materials List and Family Activities
Books:
All the Colors We Are by Katie Kissinger
The story of how we get our skin color. Provides scientifically accurate explanations that are meaningful to young children. The text is in English and Spanish.
Best, Best Colors by Eric Hoffman
Nate has trouble deciding what his favorite color is, but his two lesbian mamas help him realize that he does not have to have a best, best color.
Different, Just Like Me by Lori Mitchell
While preparing for a visit to her grandmother, a young girl notices that, like the flowers in Grammie's garden, people who are different from one another also share similarities, and it's okay to like them all the same.
Mommy Far, Mommy Near by Carol Antoinette Peacock
Elizabeth, who was born in China, describes the family who has adopted her and tries to sort out her feelings for her unknown mother.
Audio: Cassette with Book-All the Colors of the Earth by Sheila Hamanaka
Reveals in verse that despite outward differences children everywhere are essentially the same and all are lovable.
Cassette of Best, Best Colors (in Spanish)
Materials: Multicultural Crayons
Venn Diagram & marker
Craft Sticks for game
Journal
Feedback Form
Game: Tiu-u (China) from Kids Around the World Play
Recipe: Families may add a recipe to the ring!
Sweet Chinese Pancakes (China)
Coconut Bars (Ecuador)
Suggested Activities for families:
All the Colors of the Earth & All the Colors We Are
t Look outside your window and use the crayons to draw a picture of all the colors that you see. What do you see outside that matches your skin color?
Different Just Like Me
t Learn how to spell your name in sign language.
t Think about 3 people you know. Use the Venn Diagram to show some ways that you are the same and some ways that you are different.
Mommy Far, Mommy Near
t Elizabeth's mother was able to make her feel better. In what ways does your family make you feel better? Draw a picture.
Best Best Colors
t Listen to the book with the Spanish tape.
Hastings & Estabrook Elementary Schools, Lexington, Massachusetts
Supported by the Lexington Education Foundation