Chapter 11: Diverse Perspectives in Children's Literature

      The ability to see other cultures and life experiences is important in developing children’s perspective, insight, and possibilities as they progress to becoming citizens of the world, (The Joy of Children’s Literature, pg. 305).  Diversity is very broad in all aspects of the definition. Diversity means that there are a plethora of different people, cultures, beliefs, race and so much more! As teachers, we need to allow ourselves to become more aware of our surroundings when it comes to diversity. The need to understand that each individual is unique becomes very apparent when we are not comprehensive of a different language or culture background. Introducing children to multicultural literature not only allows them to accept others, but to understand why people are the way they are and be able to recognize individual differences. 

      I believe that we need to expose our children to more multicultural books, since it raises their beliefs and values of their own culture. Teachers need to take into consideration the benefits a child has when they’re exposed to different perspectives. It will allow them to succeed socially, as well as in their academics, such as social studies, art, math, and science. Multicultural books can help expand children’s knowledge on a new language by practicing reading and writing. By reading and writing in a different language, children become culturally aware of their surroundings and become culturally accepting of others. It encompasses respect and acceptance. Providing children with multicultural books, especially if they’re translated books will really help them to internationally understand books from other countries and enhance their communication of those countries. 

      Chapter 11 gave me an insight of different ways on how I can become a better teacher. Such as, dedicating myself to understanding a child’s culture and beliefs. I was born in Colombia, raised in Florida, and I understand how difficult it is to acquire a new language or to have other people accept you. I believe those people who do not accept differences have not exposed themselves to multicultural literature. While I was growing up, I remember reading a plethora of Spanish books and English books in order for me to become fluent in both Spanish and English. Since I am very accepting toward cultures and different people, I want to instill in my students the importance of becoming accepting and understanding toward others as well. Multicultural literature is the voice of truth and reason and I want my students to experience different cultures in hopes that they’ll become good citizens.