Best Children's Books to Teach Empathy, Counter Entitlement, and Understand Privilege

Raising a well-rounded child involves instilling important values such as empathy, humility, and an understanding of privilege. Books can be powerful tools in nurturing these qualities in young minds. Below are some excellent book recommendations that address these themes, helping children appreciate diversity, understand their own privilege, and value others' feelings.

'Last Stop on Market Street' by Matt de la Peña

CJ and his grandmother's journey teaches beauty in everyday life and understanding of diverse experiences.

This award-winning book follows a young boy named CJ and his grandmother as they travel through a less affluent part of the city. Through their journey, CJ learns to see beauty in everyday life and gains a deeper understanding of different people's experiences. The vivid illustrations and heartfelt narrative make this book a treasure for teaching children to recognize and appreciate the diversity around them.

'Those Shoes' by Maribeth Boelts

This story conveys important messages about need vs. want, generosity, and empathy.

'Those Shoes' is a touching story about a boy who longs for a pair of trendy shoes that his family cannot afford. As he navigates his longing and the pressures to fit in, he learns invaluable lessons about the difference between needs and wants, the importance of generosity, and the power of empathy. This book helps children grapple with their own feelings of entitlement and recognize the value of what they already have.

'A Chair for My Mother' by Vera B. Williams

Highlights the value of hard work, family, and the importance of saving.

'A Chair for My Mother' revolves around a family that saves every coin to buy a comfortable chair after their home is burned down. It is a story rich with themes of hard work, family solidarity, and the significance of saving. As children read, they grasp the importance of perseverance and working together to overcome hardships. This book is perfect for teaching kids about the value of money and the rewards of collective effort.

'The Invisible Boy' by Trudy Ludwig

This poignant story emphasizes the importance of inclusion.

'The Invisible Boy' focuses on a young boy named Brian, who feels invisible at school until a new student arrives. The story beautifully portrays the transformation that comes from inclusion and kindness. Brian's journey from feeling unseen to recognized underscores the significance of empathy and making everyone feel valued. Children learn the impact of their actions on others' feelings and the importance of inclusive behavior.

'The Can Man' by Laura E. Williams

A boy learns about hardships and kindness by helping a homeless man.

'The Can Man' tells of a boy who decides to help a homeless man collect cans to earn money. Through this act of kindness, he learns about the struggles others face and the importance of empathy. This book encourages children to look beyond their own experiences and develop a deeper understanding and compassion for those who are less fortunate.

By incorporating these thought-provoking books into your child's reading list, you can naturally guide them towards being more empathetic, understanding, and appreciating the privilege they have. Each book provides subtle lessons on kindness, generosity, and valuing human connections over material possessions.

Remember, the stories we share with our children can become the moral compass they use throughout life.