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10 Wonderful Body Positivity Books for Children

When I was growing up there were not many books regarding body shapes, disabilities, or the varieties in skin colour. The limited choices we did have were few and far between, so to see the array of educational and fun books on offer for children today is heartening.

Children now have access to some wonderful picture books to help them learn about themselves, their friends, and their neighbours. The books we have selected celebrate difference, accept disabilities, and help children embrace their own bodies.



“This funny, spirited story—written by bestselling author Beth Kobliner Shaw with her son Jacob, encourages young readers to embrace the thing that makes them unique…

Strangers often stop Jacob’s parents on the street to ask about him. See, Jacob is unusual: He has an eye patch. Jacob knows people like to ask questions, but do they have to ask right now?

Jacob’s Eye Patch is the go-to book for talking about differences that kids can enjoy and parents can turn to for guidance.”

The Barefoot Book of Children is written by Tessa Strickland and Kate DePalma.

“Empower tomorrow’s global citizens to grasp today’s critical social issues. Hand-painted illustrations and straightforward text directly engage the reader, inviting children to ask themselves: How do other children live? How are we different? And most importantly: How are we alike? The Barefoot Book of Children is a playful, powerful and thought-provoking celebration of both the big ideas and the everyday moments that reveal our common humanity and tie us all together.”

“High on energy and imagination, this ode to self-esteem encourages kids to appreciate everything about themselves–inside and out. Messy hair? Beaver breath? So what! Here’s a little girl who knows what really matters.
At once silly and serious, Karen Beaumont’s joyous rhyming text and David Catrow’s wild illustrations unite in a book that is sassy, soulful–and straight from the heart.”

My Princess Boy is written by Cheryl Kilodavis, inspired by her own son.

“Dyson loves pink, sparkly things. Sometimes he wears dresses. Sometimes he wears jeans. He likes to wear his princess tiara, even when climbing trees. He’s a Princess Boy. Inspired by the author’s son, and by her own initial struggles to understand, this is a heart-warming book about unconditional love and one remarkable family.”

SuperNatural Colouring Book is created by Janine Carrington.

“SuperNatural is a fun fresh colouring book for colourers of all ages. Featured inside are 17 inspiring superheroes with gloriously curly, natural hair. The SuperNaturals have teamed up to solve the world’s problems. The only thing they’re missing is a bit of colour and style.”

Meet ClaraBelle Blue is written by Adiba Nelson.

Meet ClaraBelle Blue is the first book in the ClaraBelle series, and introduces you to a snazzy little preschooler with major moxie – and a hot pink wheelchair!  In this story you see ClaraBelle face the naysayers in her class, and show them all the things she CAN do, and how LIKE THEM she really is, regardless of her challenges. Keep with the series to see what sorts of adventures ClaraBelle gets herself into!”

Little Miss Jessica is written by Jessica Smith.

“Little Miss Jessica is a series of children’s books that focus on accepting differences, disability awareness and positive body image.

The first book is about Jessica’s very first day. She experiences what it is like to feel different because of her appearance, but by the end of her first day at school, Jessica and all the other students in her class realise that being different is OK! This is a fabulous book for all children to read. It allows young children the opportunity to read about characters that represent what and who they see in real life.”

Your Body is Awesome is written by Sigrun Danielsdottir.

“The colourful illustrations in this unique picture book will encourage children to love their bodies from an early age. By learning about all the wonderful things bodies can do, and how each body is different and unique, children will be inspired to take good care of their bodies throughout their lives. Promoting respect for body diversity among children will also encourage kindness and help prevent bullying.

This book is ideal for children aged 4 and upwards to read at home or school, either alone or with a parent, family member, teacher or other caring professional.”

“Be who you are!
Be proud of where you’re from.
Be a different color. Speak your language.
Wear everything you need to be you.

Who better than Todd Parr to remind kids that their unique traits are what make them so special? With his signature silly and accessible style, Parr encourages readers to embrace all their unique qualities.”

Shapesville is written by Andy Mills and Becky Osborn.

“Shapesville is a picture book about five friends who live in a small town. They are all different shapes, sizes, and colours, and each has an unique talent. They encourage children to celebrate their own differences and learn that, “It’s not the size of your shape, or the shape of your size, but the size of your heart, and that deserves first prize. So be proud of your body, any size or shape will do. Be proud of your body because YOU are a STAR too!” Discussion questions and brief information for educators and parents are in the back of the book.”

Let us know what you think, and if you have any more suggestions!

Happy reading, Reading Addicts.



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