Children can learn a great deal from literature. They can learn proper language use, vocabulary, manners, and morals. Literature can also be used to expose children to a way of life different from their own. Many books are written for and about White, Middle-class society. Not only is this unfair for children who are not a member of this “in-group” but it also fortifies the idea that this culture is superior.
Books from and about different cultures can help children learn and understand the different traditions that other people may have. Literature can also be used to promote racial and socioeconomic equality through characters and plots in children’s books. I believe that parents and teachers should search for literature that introduces different cultures, races, and religions and discusses them with children.
But why stop there? What about sexual orientation? Is it appropriate for teachers to have their students read books about same sex parents or is that a topic that should be avoided? I believe that teachers should be able to select books that contain same sex couples and should use them to start discussions about sexual orientation; however, I feel that this would be strongly opposed by various parents. Some people who believe that homosexuality is morally wrong would not want to have their children learn about it in school. I believe that equality should not end with race, culture, religion, and class but should include sexual orientation and introducing students to the idea through literature is a good start.
I think using literature to teach kids about issues such as sexual orientation is important and is great way to do so. Teachers can read a fun book, and use it as a way to open up conversation about this topic. Imagine if you were a student that had same sex parents and all the books your teachers read had heterosexual parents. Most likely, you would feel left out and out of place like your family was not normal. Making all the students in the classroom feel comfortable is an important reason to read books that don’t follow social norms. With this said, I agree some parents may have a problem with their children being exposed to these topics. I think that is a really hard obstacle to overcome and teachers should be careful to not over step their boundaries and make parents upset.
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