Pride Month has arrived in Seattle! With it comes an array of family-friendly events that not only let you celebrate, but also let you and the kids show your support for our LGBTQIA+ community. It’s a chance to come together and watch parades, join in festivals and acknowledge the progress that’s been made working toward equity for the LGBTQIA+ community in Seattle and beyond. From events at the zoo and a fun run for families to the return of Seattle’s beloved Pride Parade downtown, here’s where you and the kids can celebrate and show your Pride in June.
Nate Gowdy
Seattle Pride Parade
Join over 400,000 of your besties to watch the Seattle Pride Parade as it wraps up Pride Month on the last weekend of June. Family Reunion is the theme, and after being on hold for the last two years, everyone is ready to celebrate its return. The parade starts at 4th & Pike and ends at 2nd Avenue & Denny Way. Expect performers, community groups and civic leaders to be featured along the parade route. Once the parade is over, head to PrideFest at Seattle Center to keep the party going. Three stages, hundreds of acts and plenty of dancing in the International Fountain (let's hope it a sunny day!) are what you'll find at this popular annual event that welcomes everyone.
During the last weekend in June, Capitol Hill is the place to be for Pride celebrations, events and activities for kids and families. It all kicks off with PrideFest Capitol Hill, with activations from Pine Street to Roy Street. The Station Plaza is where Family Pride (1-3 p.m.) and Queer Youth Pride (3-5 p.m.) events are taking place. You'll find rainbow-themed events for families, including books, crafts, giveaways and more. Come back the next day for the Capitol Hill Pride Rally, March & BBQ. Besides some of the best BBQ around, families can expect a doggie drag costume contest and arty putt putt, as long as the weather cooperates. Hint: this one is going on all month long.
Dates: Jun. 25 & 26, 2022
White Center Pride Festival
The main "drag" in White Center will be shut down for this Pride street festival. It's a day of music, queer vendors, beer gardens and a pet pride parade so that everyone in the family can show off their colors. People will be dancing in the streets, exciting performers will be on stage throughout the day and the famous balloon chain (from Bumbershoot and Coachella) will be included in the day's events too.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is showing its pride at this colorful event at the zoo. Throughout the day animals will enjoy rainbow-theme enrichments at unscheduled times. Kids can go on a Pride-themed scavenger hunt around the zoo, and can join in the pride animal parade (1:30 p.m.), leaving from the Wild Wonders stage. Dress in your Pride best because there's a selfie station too. Tickets are required.
Date: Jun. 25 & 26, 2022
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium 5400 N. Pearl St. Tacoma, WA Event details
Wear Your Pride at Kirkland Urban
The Eastside is where you'll find this colorful Pride event, happening again this year. Kirkland Urban's Pride Parade around the promenade features all kinds of kid-friendly eye candy like acrobats, breakdancers and roller skaters performing. Plus, they can get airbrush tattoos, face paints and balloons while they're dancing to the live DJ spinning tunes. Add in a drag queen show and Instagram installations to round out your Pride adventure.
QTBIPOC families in the Seattle area can head to the Seattle Center Mural Amphitheater for Seachella 2022. It's a chance to celebrate the "unique, eclectic, artistic, vibrant, summa time aesthetic of the Black & Brown Trans & Queer community." Activities for kids, performances throughout the day and a chance to connect as a community is what you'll find at this annual event.
Date: Jun. 25, 2022
Seattle Center Mural Amphitheater 305 Harrison St. Seattle, WA Event details
Not so into watching a game? Try a Pride Public Skate at the Kraken Community Iceplex to add flair to your family fun night. They're hosting two events (June 18 & 19) , where families can skate on rainbow ice to their favorite tunes. We hear there will be a few giveaways too!
Brooks
Run & Walk with Pride
Now in its 40th year, the Seattle Run and Walk with Pride event is a chance for gay athletes to compete and give back to their community too. It’s the annual fundraiser for Seattle Frontrunners, a group that supports local non-profits in the LGBTQ community, and it’s a great reason to bring the kids to Seward Park for this fitness-focused Pride event. The 5K is super family-friendly, but don’t let that deter you from running the 10K, if you’re up to it. Families can also participate virtually; simply complete your run any time between June 24 and 27.
Date: Jun. 25, 2022
Seward Park 5900 Lake Washington Blvd. S. Seattle, WA Event details
June is National Gay Pride Month and Washington, DC is one of the most fun places to be to celebrate. What started out as a block party in 1975 has gained momentum every year, adding a parade in the early 80s and now a month full month of activities today. Everyone’s favorite headlining events are back this year— the Capital Pride Parade, the Capital Pride Festival and SAAM’s Family Pride Day —along with a number of small, family-friendly events hosted by DC’s Public Libraries. Sprinkle on some glitter, proudly raise those rainbow flags and add these fun activities to your family calendar.
Head to the F St. Plaza on June 4 (outside of the Smithsonian American Art Museum) for a family pride festival featuring music, performances and crafts. There will be DJs, drummers and an age-appropriate drag show featuring local legends Ruth Allen Ginsburg, Desiree, Tippa Buckley and Molasses. Enjoy hands-on fun with rainbow-themed crafts for the littles. For the youngest ones (3 & up) there will be a rainbow streamer station, for kids 5 & up a multi-colored weaving craft and for the oldest kids (8 & up) pride flag-inspired jewelry making. Event details.
photo: iStock
March Down America’s Mainstreet
It’s time to celebrate! Pride events are back this year in a BIG way. On June 11, march down Pennsylvania Avenue and show off your pride along the 1.5 mile parade route. Come back on June 12 for the return of the Capital Pride Festival. Enjoy a full day of entertainment on three stages, food, drink, and advocacy with over 300 exhibitors. Event details.
photo: iStock
Celebrate LGBTQ+ Youth at this Family Pride Festival
Woodridge Neighborhood Library is hosting a party for LGBTQ+ youth and their families that will feature hands-on crafts, games, food and more starting at 1 p.m. on Sat., June 18. Don’t miss the family story time at 2:30 p.m. All ages are welcome at this festive event. Please note, masks are required. Event details.
Every year, The Smithsonian American Art Museum celebrates Pride Month with a host of activities and special events. This year they are celebrating virtually; access coloring pages featuring LGBTQ+ artists, a tutorial to make a rainbow windsock, instructions to make a rainbow pride flag, the secret recipe for puffy paint rainbow art and more on the SAAM website. Activity details.
Kickstart summer while celebrating Pride Month by hand-dying your own tie-dyed t-shirt. Bring your own t-shirt to create a colorful new garment. All supplies are provided. A handful of white shirts are available on-site on a first come, first served basis. This is an all-age event. Event details.
photo: Autumn Goodman
Spend the Afternoon Making Floral Crowns
Celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride month by making flower crowns and headpieces with tissue paper and craft supplies. This activity is inspired by the flower crowns and elaborate head pieces made by trans activist Marsha P. Johnson. This is a family-friendly program designed for kids 5-13. Bonus, it’s free!Event details.
At the corner of 17th & P you'll find a crosswalk painted in vibrant, rainbow hues. Created as a permanent installation, this crosswalk pays tribute to the Pride flag, the transgender Pride flag and also includes brown and black stripes representing POC in the LGBTQ+ community. Now a landmark in Dupont Circle, this is a great starting point for a walking tour of this historically gay neighborhood. Activity details.
Everyone is welcome at the Trek Pride Ride on June 12. Starting at 9 a.m., cyclists are encouraged to gather at Picnic Grove #10 in Rock Creek Park for a 2-hour ride celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. Come early and score free swag (while it lasts). Haul out the cargo bike, load up the kids and get ready to pedal for pride. Event details.
It’s Pride month, San Diego! While it’s important to celebrate inclusivity and LOVE year-round, the month of June (and July) offers plenty of ways to support and show acceptance of our LGBTQ+ friends and family. From parades and festivals to a children’s garden event— San Diego is a destination for Pride events and provides plenty of sparkle-filled ways to include your kids in the festivities.
Children’s Garden San Diego Pride is committed to showing kids of all ages the importance of being proud with who they are and offering them ways to have fun during pride month. At Children’s Garden, youth high-school-aged and younger get in for free and can enjoy entertainment including a toddler play area, face painting, hat making, a balloon artist, a playhouse giveaway, arts and crafts and more throughout the entire weekend. They’ll be hot dogs, popcorn, snow cones, and other snakes in a private family-only shaded oasis with tables, chairs and restrooms. By purchasing tickets to the festival, you get all weekend access to four stages of live entertainment and enjoy even more workshops and activities hosted by other community partnership organizations. Event details.
Pride by the Beach This free family-friendly pride festival is tobacco and alcohol-free. The 15th annual celebration takes place in downtown Oceanside, steps from the beach, with two stages over 100 vendors, a youth zone, arts, an education walk, an inaugural pet contest, free dental screenings, COVID vaccines, and community resources, and fun for the whole family.
Sweet Escape:
Local favorites Pot Pie Co. and Stella Jean’s Ice Cream are hosting a “sweet escape” for the community on June 1st. Bring your little one for a mid-week treat and support locally owned Queer and Asian businesses.
Wed., June 1, 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Online:
Annual San Diego Pride Parade The annual San Diego Pride Parade is the largest single-day civic event in the region, and is among the largest Prides in the United States, attracting over 250,000 cheering supporters of the LGBTQ community! The parade begins at the Hillcrest Pride Flag at University Ave. and Normal St., proceeds west on University Ave., turns south on 6th Ave., turns left onto Balboa Dr. and ends at Laurel St. – where you’ll find the entrance to the Pride Festival! Event details.
Annual San Diego Pride Festival
The Pride Festival is San Diego’s largest 2-day event highlighting the best in LGBTQ entertainment, interactive exhibits, cultural presentations, and community resources. The Pride Festival is San Diego’s largest 2-day event highlighting the best in LGBTQ entertainment, interactive exhibits, cultural presentations, and community resources. Kids high school age and younger are free! Event details.
Light up the Cathedral
You are invited to join LGBTQ Faith Leaders and Faithful. Join Dean Penny Bridges and other Faith Leaders as we gather together, in-person to celebrate our faith and resilience. After the service, the Cathedral will be lit in rainbow colors.
Pride 5K Walk & Run The Pride 5K Run & Walk is always a highlight of Pride Week festivities. Last year, despite the pandemic, more than 1,300 runners and walkers, from around the world, participated and raised $24,000 for our charity partners. All runners and walkers are invited to dress in your best rainbow gear. Every year, funds raised at the San Diego Pride 5K generate significant donations for our charity partners – San Diego Pride and The LGBT Center’s Youth Housing Project
San Diego Public Library
The SD Public Library is an integral resource for LGBQT history where you can access videos, maps, books, films and more that showcase the struggle for equal rights in the gay community. For Pride month, the library staff hand-picked a selection of books suited for kids and teens.
What is pride? It’s a feeling of being happy, content, and proud of who you are or what you’ve accomplished. Have you ever felt this before? Here at Xyza, we feel a sense of pride when we see governments and communities working together to accomplish something big, and when people treat each other with love, respect, and acceptance. That’s why we celebrate Pride Month with the LGBTQ community.
Countries around the world celebrate the LGBTQ community at different times of the year. In the United Kingdom, for example, Pride Month is celebrated in February, whereas in Brazil the largest Pride parade in the world usually takes place in March. In the United States, June is Pride month.
Why is June Pride month? In the United States, Pride Month is celebrated in the month of June to commemorate the Stonewall riots, a series of riots that erupted throughout New York City in June and July of 1969. These riots were a response to the police raid of the Stonewall Inn in New York City’s Greenwich Village, a popular gathering place for the young LGBT community during the early hours of June 28th, 1969. The police arrested employees for selling liquor without a license and roughed up the many patrons inside the inn. As police dragged patrons out of the bar and into police vans, people outside the bar watched and grew increasingly enraged. A riot soon ensued and continued for the next five days. Historians mark the Stonewall riots as a turning point in the gay rights movement.
This year marks the 53rd anniversary of what historians consider the start of annual Pride traditions. Why? On June 28th, 1970, a year after the Stonewall riots, an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 people marched down the streets of New York City to protest the abuse and discrimination that the LGBTQ community had suffered for hundreds of years. Today, millions of people around the country celebrate Pride Month with parades, festivals, workshops, and remembrance ceremonies to acknowledge the LGBTQ community and its impact on the world.
How is your city celebrating pride this year? Share with us by emailing editor@xyzanews.com.
We're two perfectly imperfect moms who have five very different kids between the two of us. We believe that topics in news are a fantastic way to spark conversations in families. That's why we started the Dinner Table Conversation series here at Xyza: News for Kids. Won't you join us in the conversation?
Los Angeles has an incredibly rich, LGBQT history—including hosting one of the first LGBQT parades on Hollywood Blvd. in 1970. To celebrate Pride Month, we’re pulling together a list of historically significant places where you can visit and learn more about these landmark achievements, along with some kid-friendly Pride Month events you can join all month long (also don’t miss our must-read list of LGBTQ books for kids). Check out our list below and make sure to check back often as updates are happening regularly!
photo: iStock
Pride Events & Activities in Los Angeles
Pride Night: LA Galaxy vs. Austin FC May 29:The Galaxy will host Pride Night, presented by Sherwin-Williams, on Sunday, May 29 against Austin FC to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. Experience special activations throughout the match in collaboration with Galaxy supporters, the Los Angeles LGBT Center and MLS’ Soccer For All program. The National Anthem will be performed by and Casey Breves avid supporters of the Los Angeles LGBT Center, there will be an Angel City Brigade Clothing Drive where donations will benefit the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Youth Center as well as a Dignity Health Glendale Memorial Hospital Food Drive. Bins at each entrance to the stadium. Donations will go to the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Pride Pantry. Event details.
LGBTQ+ Night at Dodger Stadium Jun. 3: The Dodgers have again teamed up with their long-time community nonprofit partner LA Pride to host their annual LGBTQ+ Pride Night at Dodger Stadium, presented by Blue Shield of California. This celebration of Los Angeles’ LGBTQ+ community will include drink specials in the pavilion bars, a special recognition of frontline workers from Los Angeles’ LGBTQ+ community and additional surprise guests featured during pregame ceremonies. The fun also continues post-game with Friday Night Fireworks, set to music mixed by DJ Bowie Jane. A special event ticket package includes a ticket to the game and an exclusive Dodgers LGBTQ+-themed jersey! Event details.
Light up the Night for Equality Viewing Party Jun. 3: Venice Pride cordially invites you to the Light Up the Night for Equality Viewing Party at Hotel Erwin’s High Rooftop Lounge to witness the L.A. premiere and illumination of Yvette Mattern’s Global Rainbow laser installation across the California Coast by a special guest. Event details.
Venice Pride Festival Jun. 4-5: Venice Pride Festival is returning and open to all ages! LA’s beloved grassroots LGBTQ+ celebration grows to two days and moves to a brand new beachside location: Venice Beach Recreation Center. Event details.
Let’s Celebrate LBGTQIA Voices! Jun. 6: Join Central Library for an online book club for teens to discuss a YA Fiction or Non-Fiction book that features LGBTQIA voices. Email teens@lapl.org from your school email address at least one hour before the program to request the link. Homeschool students, note the program name and “Homeschool” in the email subject line, make sure to include your name and grade level. Event details.
COME4ME by Kim Chi’ Donuts at Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts Jun. 10-30: To celebrate Pride Month, Hollywood favorite Danny Trejo, and his donut shop Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts, are teaming up with RuPaul’s Drag Race alum and cosmetics queen Kim Chi of KimChi Chic Beauty& KimChi Eats to create a colorful and delicious donut inspired by her iconic lewks. Head to Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts in Hollywood to taste the duo’s limited-time ‘COME4ME by Kim Chi’ donut that will be filled with taro cream cheese and topped with a white chocolate taro glitter glaze, passion fruit buttercream, candied dragon fruit and passion fruit flakes ($4). A portion of the proceeds from ‘COME4ME by Kim Chi’ will be donated to Seniors Fight Back, a charity whose mission is to stop hate against AAPI seniors. Event details.
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Jun. 11: The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County will host its first-ever Queer Family Day, featuring a rainbow-themed scavenger hunt, dino dance party, drag queen storytime, up-close encounters with behind-the-scenes museum collections, and more! The museum welcomes guests to wear their favorite shade of green to show off your nature-loving pride. This event is free with museum admission and for members. Event details.
LA Pride in the Park
Jun. 11: Christina Aguilera is headlining LA Pride in the Park, the music event with two stages, sponsor activations, exhibitors, and plenty of food and drink at Los Angeles State Historic Park. Gates open at 1 p.m., and the party goes until 11 p.m. Event details.
LA Pride Parade Jun. 12:The 2022 LA Pride Parade is back! Cheer on this iconic LGBTQ+ procession along with 130 contingents of marchers, performers, nonprofits, celebrities, and the businesses that proudly celebrate their LGBTQ+ employees as they walk in the 52nd Annual LA Pride Parade. This year’s theme, “Love Your Pride” which highlights “ Los Angeles as a global city whose communities love in every language. This Pride season, we’re inclusively embracing LA’s diversity by writing a love letter to LA in many languages.” Make sure to visit “Pride Village,” which is located next to the start and finish of the Parade. Vendor booths, activities and Ferris wheel will be featured. Admission is free. Event details.
Inaugural Pride Village Street Fair Jun. 12: This eclectic, family-friendly all-day street fair will be open to the public from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and will welcome patrons to continue their Pride celebrations during and after the iconic parade. The family-friendly festivities will include two stages for music and performances throughout the day, including various DJs, a performance by RuPaul’s Drag Race All Star winner, Alaska, and more, as well as a Ferris wheel, pop-up roller skating rink, beer and bar garden, food trucks, local vendors, festive programming, and lots of love. Event details.
Bingo Night With Drag Queen Pickle Jun. 13: Kick off the “Express Yourself” Summer Reading Challenge with a fabulous Bingo Night, hosted by Drag Queen Pickle. Pickle, organizer of the local Drag Queen Story Hour, brings all of the glamour and humor that a rollicking game of bingo really needs. Event details.
Pride Paddle Jun. 26: The Southbay LGBTQ Center and The Portofino Hotel & Marina in collaboration with Harbor Vibes are hosting the second-annual Pride Paddle, taking place in the King Harbor Marina. Starting from the public hand launch behind Seaside Lagoon, paddlers will traverse through the harbor to the King Harbor Yacht Club and back with fun stops along the way. For anyone who is new to paddle boarding, support and instruction will be available to you during the event. Post-paddle, head to BALEEN Kitchen featuring a signature drink; The Flamingo consisting of a Watermelon Sorbet, homemade Coconut Orgeat, Drake’s Organic Vodka, Pineapple juice and fresh mint, with a fruity pebbles rim. 10% of all proceeds going to the Southbay LGBTQ Center. Event details.
SaMo PRIDE 2022
Santa Monica Pier, Downtown Santa Monica, and Santa Monica Place, in collaboration with the City of Santa Monica and Santa Monica Travel and Tourism, present SaMo PRIDE: a month of rainbows and festivities to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, individuality, inclusivity and acceptance. For the month of Jun., The Pier, Santa Monica Place, Third Street Promenade and surrounding businesses will celebrate Pride Month with a vibrant light installation dubbed “Miles of Pride,” which spans miles of city streets, illuminating the sky with a rainbow of colors. These installations will serve as a backdrop for a full calendar of events that bring together community, families and supporters from around the world. With a focus on family-friendly art, events and community connection, City of Santa Monica partners will host PRIDE markets, story hours, live music and so much more to help celebrate love in every color. Event details.
Big Sunday Volunteers
Big Sunday has teamed up with LA Pride for Pride Makes a Difference, a series of more than 300 helping events all over town in Jun. Event details.
Made With Pride Marketplace Every Fri.-Sun. in Jun., Santa Monica Place is partnering with Streetlet, an opportunity-matching and growth engine for small business owners and makers, to bring a pop-up Made with PRIDE Marketplace to the center. This unique marketplace is part of the annual SaMo PRIDE, a month-long citywide celebration focused on family-friendly displays and activities that safely celebrate the City of Santa Monica’s inclusive and diverse spirit. Once again PRIDE events will be anchored by “Miles of Pride,” a vibrant light installation that spans the Promenade and Santa Monica Place, illuminating the sky with a rainbow of colors to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, individuality, inclusivity and acceptance. Event details.
Teen Grab-and-Go Crafts: Rainbow Garland During the month of Jun., teens and tweens ages 11-18 years can pick up a craft kit with all the supplies needed to make a rainbow garland. Visit the North Hollywood Amelia Earhart Regional Library Reference Desk during library hours to get your kit. Event details.
SAYGAY for PRIDE
In partnership with the It Gets Better Project, the rebranded Banter by Piercing Pagoda has created a limited-edition nameplate necklace that reads ‘SayGAY’, with 100% of sales, up to $25,000, benefitting the IGBP’s mission of uplifting and empowering lives of the LGBTQ+ youth around the globe through the month of June. Help fight harmful legislation being passed around the US and supporting everyone’s right to live and love freely! Details can be found here.
The Black Cat, formally a bar and now a gastropub located in Silver Lake, was the scene of a brutal police raid on New Year's Eve in 1966. Two months later, in 1967, in response to the raid, a peaceful protest was held, noted as "the site of the first documented LGBTQ civil rights demonstration in the nation." In 2008, The Black Cat was recognized by the City of Los Angeles as a Historic Cultural Monument.
This outdoor staircase in Silver Lake, was named after the Mattachine Society—one of the world's first gay rights clubs, founded in 1950. This staircase was how members reached the meetings, hosted by Henry Hay, in his home.
Once you climb to the top, you'll be rewarded with a stunning view of the Silver Lake Reservoir.
2355 Cove Ave. Los Angeles
LA Public Library
The LA Public Library is an integral resource for LGBQT history where you can access videos, maps, books, films and more that showcase the struggle for equal rights in the gay community. If you can't make it to the library, you can still check out resources thanks to hoopla digital–a free resource that allows valid library card holders to access and download ebooks, movies, audiobooks, comics and tv shows to your device. They have an extensive collection of LGBTQ+ media you can access including children's books like, "A Boy Named Queen" and "From Archie to Zak."
Stocked with over 80,000 titles, Children's Book World is "committed to celebrate diversity, knowledge, and enrichment. A world where every child sees themselves on our shelves." Recognized year after year for this achievement, they are also know for their "book selection that is open-minded (gay-friendly, multi-cultural) and well-organized, divided into age-appropriate sections."
This is the world's largest research library dedicated to honor and archive LGBTQ history. Located near the USC campus, exhibitions, art shows and cinematic screenings are hosted here as well as at their gallery space, ONE Gallery, located in West Hollywood.
ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archive 909 West Adams Blvd. Los Angeles
Los Angeles was first settled by the Tongva tribe and called the area Yang Na. But what makes this noteworthy is that the Tongva people were LGBTQ friendly. LA’s first tribes believed in "gay marriages, transgender lifestyles and that homosexuality was determined in utero" even going as far as celebrating homosexuals as “two spirited people and thought of them more as gifted than as outcasts." Look for a plaque in the plaza area honoring these ancestors.
Tia Chucha's independent bookstore specializes in providing great books on "Xicanx and Latinx history and literature, indigenous knowledge, bilingual children’s books, contemporary and social commentary issues, as well as Spanish-language, queer/LGBTQIA, art, poetry, antiracism, social change, and much more."
Located in Lincoln Park, this was the first publicly-funded AIDS monument in the country. In this serene space, you'll see a stainless steel archway as well as eight panels—six of the panels depict life with AIDS in the Latino community, and two granite panels will eventually display the names of 8,000 people lost to AIDS.
"Since 1969 the Los Angeles LGBT Center has cared for, championed, and celebrated LGBT individuals and families in Los Angeles and beyond. Today the Center provides services for more LGBT people than any other organization in the world, offering programs, services, and global advocacy that span four broad categories: Health, Social Services and Housing, Culture and Education, Leadership and Advocacy."
Maker sure to stop by and catch a show at The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, the Center's state-of-the-art educational, cultural, and social center.
The Village at Ed Gould Plaza 1125 N McCadden Pl. Los Angeles Online: lalgbtcenter.org
Los Angeles LGBT Center 1625 N. Schrader Blvd. Los Angeles Online: lalgbtcenter.org
The Celebration Theatre
The Celebration Theatre was founded in 1982 and is the only professional theater with the "mission of creating an outlet for LGBTQIA+ voices in Los Angeles."
Must-See:Dear Harvey: Stories of Harvey Milk is playing Sun. May 22-Sun. May. 29.
1. Talk about the History of Pride
Why is June Pride Month? In the United States, Pride Month is celebrated in the month of June to remember the Stonewall riots, a series of riots that erupted throughout New York City in June and July of 1969. These riots were a response to the police raid of the Stonewall Inn in New York City’s Greenwich Village, a popular gathering place for the young LGBT community during the early hours of June 28th, 1969. The police arrested employees for selling liquor without a license and roughed up the many patrons inside the inn. As police dragged patrons out of the bar and into police vans, people outside the bar watched and grew increasingly enraged. A riot soon ensued and continued for the next five days. Historians mark the Stonewall riots as a turning point in the gay rights movement.
2. Test Your Pride Trivia: Learning = Winning
How many countries have legalized same-sex marriage? Why is the rainbow flag a symbol of LGBTQ pride? What do the colors in the Pride flag mean? Which country hosts the largest Pride parade in the world? Which U.S. Presidents have acknowledged Pride month in the past? Answer trivia questions and learn a little more about Pride Month here.
3. Learn about How LGBTQ Rights Have Shifted around the World
In 2019, Ecuador became the fifth South American country to legalize same-sex marriage, Taiwan the first in Asia, and Northern Ireland the last of the countries of the United Kingdom to do the same. In 2020, Nepal announced that residents will have the option of declaring themselves female, male, or other gender in the next census. This was a big step towards acknowledging the fact that the LGBTQ community exists and that resources should be allocated to this minority population. These are just a few stories about the ongoing fight for LGBTQ equality happening around the world. For more news about LGBTQ rights, click here.
4. Get to Know People of Pride
Denise Ho is the first mainstream female singer from Hong Kong to declare herself lesbian, almost twenty years after she gained popularity. Kasha Nabagesera is a gay rights activist who continues to lead the fight for LGBTQ rights in Uganda. Did you know that New Zealand’s parliament is the queerest in the world, with twelve out of 120 members identifying as LGBTQ? Read about the people of Pride here.
5. Stay Informed: Changing Laws, Change Lives
What does the law have to do with the LGBTQ community? A lot! With one signature, the governor of Florida brought a new law into effect that barred transgender females (or those assigned male at birth who later transition to being female) from playing on girls’ teams in public schools. Read more here.
When President Biden took office, one of the first things that he did was to overturn a ban that would no longer allow transgender Americans to serve in the military. Read about why he overturned the ban here.
In February, the House of Representatives passed the Equality Act. This act would make it illegal for businesses to discriminate against people who identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer. Now, it’s up to the Senate to review and vote on the act. Read more here.
We're two perfectly imperfect moms who have five very different kids between the two of us. We believe that topics in news are a fantastic way to spark conversations in families. That's why we started the Dinner Table Conversation series here at Xyza: News for Kids. Won't you join us in the conversation?
We’ve been reading for months now through all kinds of wonderful new books and, thanks mostly to our kids, have narrowed down our top picks for the best children’s books of 2020. From picture books to bedtime stories to graphic novels and chapter books for young readers, all those hours of reading added up to this vetted, mom-and-child-tested list. Read on for our choices.
Board Books & Books for Early Readers
My Favorite Color: I Can Only Pick One?
Candlewick Press
Fans of Aaron Becker's previous stunning board book You Are the Light will love the newest exploration of colors from the Caldecott-Honor-winning author-illustrator.
New York Times-bestselling and NAACP-Award-winning illustrator AG Ford comes together with Tameka Fryer Brown in their new collaboration, Brown Baby Lullaby. Gorgeous illustrations are paired with the sweet lullabye of parents caring for their baby. Using both Spanish and English, this book makes for the perfect bedtime story.
Help your kiddos learn the colors of the rainbow in addition to fine art with the Andy Warhol What Colors Do You See? board book. Using Warhol's signature style and love of color, this simple book brings his masterpieces to your little's fingertips in a fun and easy way. Available Jan. 21.
From activist, professor and father Ibram X. Kendi, this lovely picture book will help you and your kids learn about cultivating a more equitable world by following nine simple steps. We love this new and powerful read; it is filled with thoughtful rhymes and beautiful, bold illustrations.
Out in time for Pride Month (June) this early reader board book is the perfect way to engage kids, especially if you can't attend a Pride Parade this year. "1 Parade in the month of June/2 DJ's spin fabulous tunes." Michael Joosten's rhyming prose is perfectly accompanied by Wednesday Holme's bright illustrations.
Llama Llama is back! In the newest book, your fave character can't find his funny. Where could he be? Kids will love lifting the flap to help Llama find his bedtime bestie. Available Jan. 14.
This adorable new book series comes in a set of four: Equality, Happiness, Imagination and Truth. Each one features a famous philosopher (think Socrates and Simone de Beauvoir) and has vivid, fun illustrations any baby will love. There are also thought-provoking questions that are appropriate for the toddler set, and each book will inspire your tiniest readers to consider their place in the world.
In the sixth book of the This Little series, This Little Dreamer: An Inspirational Primer brings some of the most historic figures to light for young readers. The sweet illustrations share the tales of Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Theresa, Martin Luther King, Jr. and more with age-appropriate facts that are sure to inspire. Available Jan. 14.
The third book in the Tiny Travelers series takes readers on a journey from San Juan to Vieques. Created by a team of parents with multicultural backgrounds, the series promises a celebration of diversity with hidden treasures on every page. Great for kids of all ages, the interactive book is packed full of beautiful illustrations and rhyme-based storytelling.
From the beloved brand Highlights comes a new set of picture books for kids. One, in an A-Z format, this book will show kids all the different ways they can bring a little kindness into the world. Think helping with chores, delivering cookies to a neighbor, standing up for what’s right and more. The other does the same in counting form and featuring a diverse cast of kids and beautiful illustrations, these are both excellent books to read aloud in a classroom or at home before bedtime.
Though we’re not together we’re never truly apart, because you’re always on my mind and you’re always in my heart. This is what a mother tells her child as she leaves for work each day. This lovely board book perfectly captures the sentiment that many women feel about being a working mom. The lyrical text takes us through a mother’s day away, demonstrating that although she’s working hard, her child is always on her mind and always in her heart. Available Mar. 10.
Explore the adorable tiny houses of woodland critters in this interactive board book by Nicola Slater. In it, Alex—an orange tabby cat—visits one house after another, collecting new friends at every stop. At the end of the book, the rabbits, dogs, hedgehogs, squirrels, and bears join Alex outside to play catch with a touch-and-feel big, red ball.
Introduce your toddler to the legendary E.T., with this adorable interactive board book. Help E.T. find the right word to describe what going on in the picture by turning the wheel at the side. From what he likes to eat to what he wants to do with the phone, this sweet dose of nostalgia will be enjoyed by everyone.
Little mole is sad, so his mother takes him out of his dark, underground burrow to search for hope. They find it in flower bulbs that will become daffodils, trees that will grow green leaves in the spring, and a chrysalis where a butterfly will soon emerge. Close your eyes and imagine what's to come, Mama says, showing little mole that there's always hope when you're in a dark place. This sweet lesson shows kids how to endure their own challenges and find hope around them.
Just breathe.... This book provides a guided meditation that shows kids how to focus on their breathing and stay calm even when they have troubling thoughts in their head. Illustrations show how thoughts can feel—flitting like butterflies, stomping like monsters or popping like bubbles—while reassuring kids that even scary thoughts pass and that mindful breathing, just ten deep breaths, can put us at ease.
Jane Ormes' lift the flap board book all about the forest is a perfect addition to any baby or toddler library, and one that teaches more than just shapes or colors. A daddy deer is called a stag, a mommy bear is called a sow, a baby is called a kit. The flaps reveal the different names for baby animals, all accompanied by the woodlandy-cute illustrations that set it apart.
Hello, Elephant!; Hello, Bear! and Hello, Whale! Board Books
Candlewick Press
This large, sturdy board book format with lots of flaps will keep curious kiddos entertained while they learn all about the animals of the African savanna in Hello, Elephant; creatures of the ocean in Hello, Whale and forest friends in Hello, Bear! Author-illustrator sam Boughtons images are reminiscent of Eric Carle, in the best way possible.
Picture Books We Can’t Stop Staring At (& Reading)
Can Bears Ski?
Candlewick Press
This cheerful new book (released in November 2020) introduces readers to deafness and hearing aids in a totally kid-friendly way: Little Bear is having trouble hearing, but doesn't understand what is happening. He just keeps hearing funny phrases, like "Can bears ski?" The author, Raymond Antrobus was diagnosed with deafness at age seven and the illustrator, Polly Dunbar, became hard of hearing in her '20s. The result is a lesson in empathy that aims to destigmatize deafness and an excellent addition to any library, especially a classroom one.
Written by Smiriti Prasadam-Halls with luscious illustrations by David Litchfield, perhaps the author and the publisher both had a premonition about just how important this book would be in 2020. The message is clear, as Dolly Parton will tell you, "If you want rainbows, you gotta' put up with the rain." This beautiful book rhymes its way through a magical world that is full of thunder and clouds and kindness and clarity. This is a great bedtime book, too and though its written for ages 3-7, older kids will get some comfort from it at night as a girl and her fox companion move away from a sorrowful past, through challenges, and into a new tomorrow. Sounds about right, no?
Mexican-artist and author-illustrator Flavia Z. Drago's stunning debut picture book full of bright illustrations that bring to mind gorgeous papel picado paper-cuts as we adventure through Gustavo's world. Gustavo doesn't like to talk much and has trouble making friends, but soon he learns his other gifts are something the world (and his friends) need.
There are a lot of tough times for kids in life, and moving away or losing a friend to a move can be really hard at any age. This beautiful book by Newbery medalist Meg Medina, illustrated by Sonia Sanchez, helps children process more of those big feelings and remember that friendship is in our hearts. This is also a helpful book during these times when playdates are few and far between.
The second book from the author of Jamie Is Jamie: A Book About Being Yourself and Playing Your Way focuses on teaching kids gender-neutral pronouns. Jamie goes on a walk with Bubbie (grandma) and along the way has to correct Bubbie when she assumes genders about some of the people they meet. Includes a special section for parents and educators and makes an excellent gift for any classroom.
Claude is a celebrity alligator and the mascot for San Francisco's California Academy of Sciences. His story started almost 25 years ago in Louisiana, where he hatched out of his egg to discover he looked different from the other hatchlings. They were green and Claude was white. The other hatchings avoided him, and his color made him vulnerable to predators. So Claude went to a special zoo that cared for alligators where he lived in a pen by himself. Now he was safe—but alone. Find out what happens to Claude in this wonderful new book by Emma Bland Smith.
With a can-do attitude, Cor Cor shows that with enough determination anything is possible. Cor Cor's readers learn about places around the world, as he explores exciting destinations from his wheelchair. Whether admiring the northern lights in Iceland or meeting kangaroos in Australia, no adventure is off-limits.
As a wheelchair user that has visited all seven continents, co-author Cory Lee always wanted to read a book that he could relate to while growing up. Collaborating with his mom, co-author Sandy Gilbreath, they created this children’s picture book to show that the possibilities for all children are limitless, regardless of their abilities.
Part fairy-tale, part woodland adventure, author-illustrator Lucy Fleming will transport your kiddos to a forest family of creatures work together to make one little, tiny person's dream comes true. Celebrates the power of generosity and helping those who may have an issue they are dealing with (Ella can't go out in the day). It also makes an utterly beautiful bedtime read.
With bright watercolor illustrations, this book tells the story of how an imaginative lion named Guion shows his friends how to see magic in their everyday world. Inspired by the author's three kids, including her oldest with Down syndrome, the book shows readers how to change their perspective and find a little magic in their own lives too. The book ends with suggestions for fun activities for families to play together, building on the themes in the book.
The shoulders on the drag queen go shimmy, shimmy, shimmy...all through the town.
Fans of Drag Queen Story Hours around the country will love this book from Lil' Miss Hot Mess, one of the first Queens to host DQSH. Bright, playful illustrations by Olga de Dios add the perfect touch to this update on the classic "wheels on the bus" song that aims to teach little kids everywhere...there's nothing wrong with a little swish in your step.
Mom and author Sara Olsher wrote the book she wished she could have given her own daughter while they navigated her own divorce. Written with clear words and bright illustrations, this book shows kids that even though divorce is scary, it is something lots of families get through. Olsher's life mission is to help little people through tough times, including how to talk to kids about a parent's cancer diagnosis and the coronavirus.
Clarissa the cottage doesn't want to be adorable, she wants to be scary like her parents, a witch's hut and a creepy castle! Told in lyrical stanzas, Clarissa embarks on a journey to learning to be her very best self.
A beautiful, empowering picture book from Meena Harris about two sisters who work with their community to effect change, inspired by a true story from the childhood of the author’s aunt, Kamala Harris, and mother, lawyer and policy expert Maya Harris.
This story about a little girl who is very close with her grandma and the girl's experience as her grandma's dementia progresses. It is an excellent child's eye view of this often confusing and heartbreaking disease and a great tool for parents and caregivers to engage kids in the conversation of aging, dementia and alzheimers.
Geisel Honor Winner Kara LeReau teamed up with Caldecott Medal winning illustrator Matthew Cordell to introduce readers to "the newest star in the circus: Baby Clown!" Frieda and Boffo clown's little make-up ready clown is adorable, but he's also not very happy. Laugh out loud as Baby Clown cries his way through the circus acts, diaper changes, feedings and nap. As any parent can attest, though, the show must go on. Find out how on Apr. 14.
The true story of Mohammad Alaa Aljaleel, a man who, in the midst of the on-going Syrian civil war, managed to find and offer safe haven to dozens and dozens of abandoned pet cats. A somber but important book that offers kids’ a glance at the effects of war, this inspiring tale is accompanied by wonderful illustrations.
"When work is done, it's time for FUN!" Explore the forest, the canyon, fields and more beyond the job site where these adorable dinosaur-equipment characters find out that fun can mean work (and work can be fun!). Written and illustrated by Michael Whaite.
Meet Cornelius J. Sparklesteed. He has a secret. He’s a unicorn!! He also lives in Hoofington, where lots of nasty rumors about unicorns get passed around. They’ve gone so far as to announce that unicorns aren’t welcome. So, Cornelius designs fabulous hats to conceal his secret, and along the way, garners the admiration of friends and even the mayor! This shiny, sparkly book is a delightful read, and more importantly, shows that sometimes, different isn’t just weird, it’s AWESOME.
Little Meg has a unique skill; she can build almost anything out of cardboard. She enjoys the maker spotlight until one day she meets Simone, who shares the same abilities. This book follows their antics as they try to out-construct each other. DIY directions for some of Meg's favorite creations are included at the back of the book.
When debut author Angela Joy set out to teach her children their first Black History lesson she was not expecting her preschooler to say, "But Mama, we're not black, we're brown." It was then that she realized that she wanted her children, and all children, to understand that being Black was about culture as much as color. And so Black Is a Rainbow Color was born. Vibrant, stained-glass like artwork by Coretta-Scott King Award-winning illustrator Ekua Holmes accompanies Joy's poetic text as we join a little girl on a journey to discover all the wonderful things that Black is.
"Black is the robe of Thurgood's back. Black are the trains on railroad tracks. Black are the eyes on salted peas. Black are the shadows of ooo-old magnolia trees."
Includes a suggested playlist as well as an expanded explanation of the historical references in the text to allow parents to explain Black history to their kids. It's an exceptionally designed, written and thoughtful new book appropriate for kids of all ages and ethnicities. We can't wait to see what Joy does next. Available Jan. 14.
Ages: Suggested age, 4-8, but we think even older kids can benefit from this book due to the important historical talking points in the back of the book
This incredibly compelling book written by Thomas Harding and illustrated by Britta Teckentrup tells "The True Story of a House, Its History, and the Four Families Who Made It Home" and follows the history of a house taken from a family by the Nazis. Though it could end there, the author continues to tell the story of the new families who came to live in the walls and make it a happy home over the years. A deeply moving reminder of the sorrow of loss and the hope of new beginnings.
Fred is bound to make school less boring. The creative boy decides that his teacher is a robot, and takes his friends on a fantastical journey that only the wildly imaginative mind of a child can do.
While this book is technically a Kickstarter campaign (ends April 19), we just had to share. A beautiful collection of 30 stories about kids from all over the world, it includes fun facts and activities that help bring each culture to life. Available now for pre-order, books will be shipped in November—which makes this a perfect holiday gift.
If you read Jessica Love's Julián Is a Mermaid, a beautiful book about gender identity and acceptance, you'll love Julián at the Wedding. Just as gorgeously illustrated, this time we find Julián and his abuela heading to a wedding where Julián is in the wedding party. He makes a new friend and together they enjoy the beauty and enchantment of a magical wedding. A wonderful view of how young children see love and another homerun for acceptance and individuality that every family should own.
Author-illustrator Deborah Marcero brings us a beautifully illustrated picture book about the beauty of ordinary things and the magic of young friendships. Little bunny Llewellyn is a collector of ordinary things, "like buttercups, feathers, and heart-shaped stones" along with cherry colored sunsets and the shadows of summer with his friend, Evelyn. But when Evelyn moves away, they stay connected in a most magical way. Each page delights with "jars" of illustrations your children will love discovering. Available Jan. 21.
The first picture book from renowned astrophysicist Ray Jayawardhana is a delight. Set as a poem, Child of the Universe is a sweet meditation on the fact that from the literal stardust that makes our bodies to the atoms that connect us, we are all connected to the universe and to one another. (Available March 17)
Your child's Spanish will be muy bien thanks to this picture book that introduces common Spanish words organized by categories including animals, body parts, food, colors, numbers, household objects and more. The words are introduced with kid-friendly images that make learning both informative and enjoyable.
This remarkable biographical picture book, written by Lisa Robinson and illustrated by Rebecca Green, introduces young readers to one of the trailblazing women of the circus arts! In revolutionary France, a young girl named Marguerite dreamed of becoming a tightrope dancer, and she dazzled from the young age of nine, going on to garner the admiration of crowds. She became known as Madame Saqui. This is her remarkable story!
If the adorable illustrations from award-winning artist Miguel Ordóñez (Jimmy Fallon’s Your Baby’s First Word Will Be Dada) don’t draw you in, then the funny, lively prose and the smattering of Spanish words thrown into this twist on a classic fairy tale by author Susan Middleton Elya will. There’s even a glossary of words at the front for kids to reference.
The dreamy watercolor wash of a magical undersea world comes to life in Anna Pignataro's The Heart of a Whale, the story of a whale whose beautiful song calms all the aquatic creatures and whose lonely sigh calls out to another whale across the sea. Enchanting, magical and incredibly sweet. Available Jan. 28.
This just-published book by Janet Sumner Johnson, illustrated by Courtney Dawson, is for every kid who has ever had a parent too busy to read a bedtime story. When it happens to Shailey, she takes matters into her own hands. She fires her dad, posts a help wanted sign and the offers start rolling in…from her favorite fairytale characters. Find out who winds up reading bedtime stories to Shailey when you sit down to read this cute book with your crew.
Fred's Big Feelings: The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers
Simon & Schuster
This picture-book biography by Laura Renauld, illustrated by Brigette Barrager, reminds us all of one of the purveying messages from Mister Rogers Neighborhood and Fred Rogers' life: it's okay to have feelings. The book takes us from his childhood finding his feelings through the piano, his grandfather McFeely's unconditional love, the feeling of gaining confidence in high school by being compassionate, through the feeling that children's television was conveying the wrong message: and Fred's feeling that he should change it. This book teaches kids not only about Fred Rogers life and legacy, but also to express and embrace their own feelings. Available Jan. 14.
Ages: 4-8 (but we grown-ups really enjoyed it, too!)
Helena Ku Rhee's wonderful new picture book tells the story of little Daniel, whose parents work as night janitors, usually while he sleeps. When the babysitter can't make it, Daniel has to go along with his parents to the big glass building they clean. Little does he know it is the land of the Paper King. Inspired by Rhee's own parents, this is the story of hardwork and imagination, and a reminder to be kind. Beautifully illustrated by Pascal Campion.
The democratic process comes to the jungle with this debut picture book by Brazilian authors Paula Desgualdo & Pedro Markun and illustrators André Rodrigues & Larissa Ribeiro. Yes, Lion is the King but when his selfish behavior causes his subjects to dissent, they decide it's time to hold an election. Each candidate campaigns with their unique attributes: Sloth, Snake, Monkey and more all bring something new to the table. A great way to teach kids about elections in a non-partisan way.
Penned by Sharon Langley, the famously photographed African-American who rode a carousel at Baltimore's Gwynn Oak Amusement Park in 1963, this beautifully illustrated book tells the story of peacefully fighting for equality.
Katarina's dreams are bigger than city life. The ten-year-old has it in her heart to become the best: a prima ballerina. Despite not having any training, Katarina sets out to win a coveted spot in an international dance camp that is sure to make her a start.
"When someone opens a door to you, go forward." Young Frances Perkins spent her life heeding the wise words her grandmother taught her as a little girl. Kathleen Krull's The Only Woman in the Photo tells the story of Frances Perkins, the first woman to ever sit on a presidential cabinet. Perkins became Franklin D. Roosevelt's trusted advisor, and it is Perkins you can thank for such things as child labor laws, unemployment insurance and social security. Illustrations by Alexandra Bye bring the life and times of this persistent, fearless trailblazer to life.
Olympia, Washington-based paper artist, Nikki McClure, released this beautiful book about the power of creativity and community at the end of February. It follows a family for a day in a small town, wondering with each turn of the page, what these hands will make. Will they make a fiddle? Fire from a stack of wood? How about a beautiful bouquet or a house for swallows? McClure’s recognizable art showcases the potential of each possible creation in the most compelling way.
A beautiful picture book based on the life and journey of who most consider the father of modern art. This lovely work follows the life of the painter Paul Cézanne, who never gave up, even when the Parisian critics rejected his work, never gave up his mission to be a great painter, and was always evolving in style and technique. And yes, he really did have a parrot!
Geraldine and the Most Spectacular Science Project
Geraldine is a spunky second-grade student who loves science but sometimes has a hard time paying attention in class. When her teacher announces the science contest, she’s determined to take the prize. With lots of hard work, a pile of everyday stuff, and tons of confidence (she doesn’t let her fellow students' whispers get her down), Geraldine creates something truly amazing. A great story for kids who like to dream. (Available Feb 28th)
Beautifully illustrated with charcoal, ink and watercolor, this sweet story about the friendship between a young girl and a bison evolves into a tender tale of loss and the passage of time. Ultimately, the girl learns that the bison will always be in her heart, so this may be a good story to help a young reader understand the loss of a loved one.
Learn the true, amazing story of young Peter Wetzel, whose family attempts to escape East Germany in 1979 in a homemade hot air balloon. The story explains, in kid-friendly terms, about the differences between East Germany and West Germany and how his family and close friends prepare to risk their lives for the promise of a better one.
Introduce your modern kid to the world of reporting and writing for an independent newspaper. Join Nellie, the new kid in Bear Creek, Maine (and the daughter of two newspaper veterans), as she strives to uncover who’s behind the recent attacks of vandalism. She’ll need a whole crew of journalists, who might, in the end, end up being new friends too.
The Spirit of Springer: The Real-Life Rescue of an Orphaned Orca
This newly released book, by author Amanda Abler and illustrator Levi Hastings, details the real-life rescue of Springer, a northern resident orca found swimming alone in Puget Sound in 2002. The book immerses kids in the thrilling details of the heroic rescue and even follows up with Springer in the present.
This alphabet book stars women artists including iconic painters like Georgia O’Keefe and Frida Kahlo but also puts the spotlight on lesser-known artists like Mirka Mora, Judith Leyster and more. Each page has a short explanation of the works that define each artist (for example, legendary photographer Dorthea Lange is X is for EXposure), and if older kids want to learn more, the back pages have extended biographies. Beautiful illustrations complete this lovely picture book that's bookshelf worthy.
Exploring the Elements: A Complete Guide to the Periodic Tables
Phaidon
We're not gonna' lie, with all of this at-home schooling parents can use all the help they can get and this smart, well-designed book will give any kid (and their parents) a little guidance when it comes to the basics of chemistry. Written by Isabel Thomas and illustrated by Sara Gillingham. It's like the textbook you wish you'd had as a student.
A ghostly, fantastical tale written and illustrated by Irish author P.J. Lynch, this picture book for older readers is full of ghosts, love and an underwater world that is both haunting and beautiful. It reads like an ancient story someone once whispered to you as you walked the shores, and yet is completely new.
The subtitle says it all in this brightly illustrated (William Luong) book by author Mifflin Lowe: Real Stories about Black Cowboys, Women Sharpshooters, Native American Rodeo Stars, Pioneering Vaqueros, and the Unsung Explorers, Builders, and Heroes Who Shaped the American West.
Engaging, full of awesome pictures and rich with historic info every kid (and their parents) should learn.
Not your average reference book, author Jules Howard presents a thorough investigation of the wonder of bones in this hardcover volume with insanely-amazing illustrations by Chervelle Fryer, who manages to be both scientifically accurate and aesthetically pleasing at the same time. Seriously, you'll wish you could frame this whole book. The added bonus? Kids will learn all about bones and skeletons, from horses to flying foxes to penguins. The book is arranged by "type" of animal: jumping, flying, running, swimming, etc. A must-buy for any kid's reference library.
A seek and find book with a beautifully simplistic and minimal approach, Jorrien Peterson's new work is a can't miss. Kids will learn about nine unique biomes (naturally occurring communities), what makes them special, be challenged to find specific flora and fauna and answer a question at the end of each "lesson."
Shannon Hale and Dean Hale's beloved character is back to try to solve the "big problem," a noisy stomping giant. The eighth book in this New York Times bestselling series, the illustrations by LeUyen Pham are just as important to telling the story as the Hale's well-crafted words. A perfect first-chapter book series.
This graphic novel written by Matthew Cody and illustrated by Yoshi Yoshitani features young Zatanna, daughter of a magician but don't be fooled. It's a very in-depth story about a young girl—mourning her mother and being bullied in school—who embarks on an utterly fantastical adventure through a house of secrets, full of riddles, enemies, unexpected friends and the afterlife.
Dav Pilkey's latest in the Dog Man series is full of laughs, as per usual. This time, Dog Man turns in his badge and resigns his post. Will he get back on the force? Read it to find out!
This fun graphic novel follows a tween Diana (aka Wonder Woman) on the island of Themyscira. As the only child on the island, she faces bouts of loneliness and ends up trying to make a friend, with unintended consequences. Featuring strong female protagonists and vivid illustrations, this is a great choice for early elementary-school kids.
Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Immigrant Women Who Changed the World i
Rebel Girls
This wonderful collection by Elena Favilli, the third in the Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls series, covers famous immigrant women from Josephine Baker to Rhianna. In the signature style, it is beautifully illustrated by women artists from around the world and full of relatable stories and facts for rebel kids to learn about these fierce and awesome women.
Retired pirates! Secret Codes! Witches! Sea Monsters! If that isn't enough to entice you to read this heavily illustrated chapter book, the fact that Warren the 13th is full of puzzles and riddles just might. In this adventure, we find Warren managing his family's floating hotel and planning his 13th birthday party. In this final adventure for Warren, part of a three-book series, Author Tania Del Rio's and illustrator Will Staehle bring us one of the most entertaining and unique books of 2020.
Ages: 10-12
Buy it now. $12
Chapter Books We Love
Tristan Strong Destroys the World (Tristan Strong Book 2)
Penguin Random House
Part of Rick Riordan Presents, this book blows just about every other book of its kind out of the water with humor, history and some seriously amazing and heart-touching themes including children facing trauma, in a way that is perfectly relatable to young readers. Tristan, who has returned from his previous epic adventure to the land of African-American folk heroes (Alke) with PTSD, is forced to return to Alke—this time to rescue beloved grandma! Themes of resilience are interwoven artfully with loveable heroes (like Gum Baby, Tristan's other world sidekick) and larger-than-life characters. Our editor's son, who poured through every Rick Riordan and Rick Riordan Presents book written to date, said this is by far one of his favorite books of the year.
Aru Shah and the Tree of Wishes (Pandava Series, Book 3)
Penguin Random House
If the Tristan Strong is our editor's son's favorite this year, Aru Shah is a close second. Another series in the Rick Riordan presents, now 14-year-old Aru Shah returns to the Otherworld from books 1 & 2, based on characters and the landscape from the epic Hindu poem, the Mahabharata, this time to help a captive clairvoyant. The richness of voice and humor is present throughout.
When a child goes through a divorce, many things change. When ten-year-old Bea's parents tell her they are getting a divorce, they present her with a list of the things that will not change, including their love for her. Follow Bea as she navigates her big feelings as her dad remarries, and things definitely change, yet always returning to that list of things that don't, which author Rebecca Stead navigates artfully and age-appropriately.
The eagerly awaited new book from Rick Riordan (and the final in the Trials of Apollo) series does not disappoint with all of your favorite characters and monsters together for an epic conclusion, masterfully and hilariously written by one of the best incredible-adventure telling, middle grade authors to grace our shelves since Tolkien. (Yeah, we read Tolkien in middle school! #booknerds).
The Quest for the Crystal Crown (The Story Pirates Present)
Random House
Based on an original idea by a real kid! The third book in The Story Pirates Presents series, it's like two books in one. The first part is the story about an enchanted city, and the second part of the book is all about how to create your own fantasy adventure, including creative writing tips and tricks.
This beautiful book kicks off a new series by Newbery Honor author Amy Timberlake, illustrated by beloved artist and Caldecott medalist Jon Klassen (I Want My Hat Back, The Dark, and others). In Skunk and Badger (Skunk and Badger Book 1) we are introduced to a classic new odd-couple that will quickly grab your kiddos' hearts.
This is the second middle grade novel from Bay Area author Mae Respicio and it is full of Filipino folklore, history and cuisine. Any Day with You is a warm, tender story about a creative girl who hopes that by winning a filmmaking contest, she’ll convince her great-grandfather not to move back home to the Philippines.
New in January of 2020, author Tiffany Jewell aims to dismantle racism by helping readers understand the origins of racism, current racism in our society and how to stand up against racial oppression. Each chapter builds on the previous one as you learn more about yourself and racial oppression and it includes 20 powerfully effective activities to get you thinking and help you learn and grow.
Recommended age: The publisher list ages 11+ but we think every family should own a copy of this and read it together.
Ramona Quimby gets a modern update with Ryan Hart and her middle-class family. Newberry Honor and Coretta Scott King Author Award winner Renée Watson starts a new chapter book series for budding readers with Ways to Make Sunshine. The intro novel follows Ryan as she navigates family that includes her dad finding a job after a long period of unemployment, school and self-image. No matter what she faces, Ryan knows how to make sunshine out of any situation.
Sandy Stark-McGinnis' second middle school novel offers a hopeful yet heart wrenching story of a young girl dealing with her mother's early onset Alzheimer's diagnosis. Cassie and her dad are handling all the new changes quite well until Mom forgets Cassie's name, and she struggles to stay connected to friends and her art. Tough topics abound in this middle grade story that follows Cassie as she decides to break one of her dad's rules to make her mom happy.
Imagine a world where girls loved their body just as it is. Love Your Body, a new book by Jessica Sanders strives to make this a reality. With “imperfect” illustrations, this book helps show girls that their bodies are powerful instruments, rather than just an object. It covers all shapes and sizes, what happens with puberty hits, and even has tips and tricks that may help girls feel better about themselves.
Dark Hedges, Wizard Island, and Other Magical Places That Really Exist
Readers will learn all about mysterious and mystical places that really exist, like The Skeleton Coast, The Fairy Tale Route and even the Lost City of Petra. Piquing the interest of budding and seasoned travelers alike, this is an ideal book to read with kids who are curious about all the unusual things out in the big wide world.
Billed as 5 bookzzz in 1, Tedd Arnold's popular Fly Guy Presents series including Sharks, Dinosaurs, Insects, Bats and Snakes, are compiled into one book. In each chapter, Fly Guy and Buzz introduce kids to these "scary" animals with facts, photos and Fly Guy commentary.
If your kid likes the Wimpy Kid series, this new set of stories might be right up his alley. Meet Iggy. He's a mischevious kid who will go through a series of doing bad things, from kinda bad to really bad. Then he'll deal with the consequences. Told with a dry wit and including plenty of fun illustrations, this easy chapter book is perfect for kids mastering their reading skills.
Part choose-your-own-adventure, part mystery, part activity book, the newest book in the Escape This Book series by author Bill Doyle and illustrator Sarah Sax will have your kids reading, laughing, drawing and puzzling out an "escape route" from an Egyptian tomb by choosing one of three paths. Educational and interactive, this might be the best book for travel we've seen in ages.
Diary of a 5th Grade Outlaw: The Friend Thief Book 2
Epic Originals
Head back to Nottingham Elementary for another adventure! Robin is happy to be "back together" with her BFF after "winning" her back from the schoolyard bully, Nadia. But Nadia starts to win over the other kids including Robin's bestie. The second book in this Robin Hood inspired series, find the first one here. Written by Gina Loveless, illustrated by Andrea Bell.
In the vein of books like Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls, this illustrated book aims to empower and inspire kids by telling incredible stories of courage, ingenuity and deep commitment of kids who have changed (and are changing) the world. Amy Blackwell's rich illustrations accompany author Amandi Li's account of true-life tales of 29 incredible, ordinary kids including activist Great Thunberg, shark-attack survivor and surfer Bethany Hamilton, football (soccer) star Pelé, and more.
Small & Mighty: An Activist's Guide for Finding Your Voice & Engaging with the World
Gibbs Smith
Filled with six activity-packed chapters, this interactive journal encourages young people to find and share their voice. Young activists will find checklists, stickers, worksheets, and introspective activities that will encourage them to think about their future and the world around them.
Ages: 9-14
Get it here, $16.99; Find Girl Almighty: An Interactive Journal for Being a Mighty Activist of the World & Other Utterly Respectable Pursuits here, $16.99
A Girl, A Raccoon, and the Midnight Moon
Chronicle Books
Karen Romano Young introduces readers to a group of kid (and raccoon) activists who are fighting to save their local library. If that fact alone isn't enough to get you reading (raccoon activists! library lovers!) her frequent references to Edna St. Vincent Millay, delightful footnotes, and magically-infused writing should do it. Classic illustrations by Jessixa Bagley's add even more enchantment to the pages.
From first-time author J.M.M Nuanez comes a story about a girl named Jack and her gender non-confirming little brother Birdie. A beautifully written tale about loss, sibling relationships, and how love and understanding can grow and thrive, even for the most unexpected families. Strong characters and flowing prose make this stunning debut a must-read book for 2020.
We Had to Be Brave: Escaping the Nazis on the Kindertransport
Harrowing real-life stories come to life in award-winning author Debrah Hopkinson’s non-fiction retelling of families torn apart by Nazi Germany. With interviews, photos and detailed research, Hopkinson approaches what might be, for middle-grade kids, their first non-fiction account of the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Holocaust, with incredible details and readable prose. An important contribution to YA literature.
Before Hermione and Katniss, there were brilliant queens, clever villagers and brave girls who were saving the world around them—even if you’ve never heard their stories. Now is their chance to shine in this lovely collection of folktales from China, Russia, Persia, India, France, Germany and more. These strong protagonists are ideal role models for young girls.
As an Indian American girl in a small town, Lekha hides her differences and avoids confrontation so she won't get teased. But when a new Indian girl moves in across the street, she teaches Lekha about prejudice, pride in her culture and the power of her own voice.
Lotta, Egg, Fenna, Sem, and Milou are orphans in 19th century Amsterdam. In all the years that Little Tullip Orphanage headmistress Elinora Gassbeek has been in charge, she's never seen more unusual arrivals than that of these five. Each with mysterious beginnings, all with unique character, they become known as "the unadoptables." When they unearth a villainous plan from their apparent adopted patron, they escape together into the frozen streets and canals of Amsterdam. What follows is the discovery of who they are and where they came from. With delightful prose and an excellent plot, readers will be captived until the last page of this fantastic debut by author Hana Tooke.
When her father gets sick, 12-year-old Piper is sent to live at her grandmother's house. The grand estate and its garden hold many secrets: Who are the mysterious children who live on the property? And is Piper's grandmother really a witch? Piper needs answers to help heal her father.
From Newbery Award-winning novelist Mildred D. Taylor comes the end of the Logan family saga that began with Song of the Trees and Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. In All the Days Past, Cassie Logan is all grown up and trying to find her place in the world. Her journey takes her to Toledo, California, law school in Boston and finally, back to Mississippi in the '60s to help with voter registration. She will be witness to the rise of the civil rights movement, which is preceded by racist American white society, and the often violent confrontations that bring about historical change.
America's Test Kitchen has just released their newest book, My First Cookbook and its one for every little up and coming chef. The photo-focused book introduces kitchen language, equipment, helpful kitchen prep and tons of step-by-step instructions that littles (and cooking-challenged adults) will adore. Enjoy simple and delicious recipes for appetizers and snacks, main meals, seasonal goodies and international recipes.
Perfect for budding bakers, The Llamacorn Cookbook's bright photos and easy recipes will inspire everyone. The 96-page book shares 45 recipes, many of which use store bought items to make cooking easy and fun––especially for parents. Kiddos can whip up Llamacorn's Meringue Cookies, Enchanged Unicorn Horns and Lah-Tee-Dah Pink Limeade and plenty more whimsical treats.
The Peanuts gang is here to spice up your kiddos lunch! Packed with over 50 recipes and 60+ comic strips, this fun cookbook puts a fun twist on kid-friendly recipes, sneaking in a fair amount of fruit and veggies in the process.
Over 60 royal recipes await in the new Disney Princess Baking cookbook. With categories that include morning treat, cakes, bars, cookies, pies and tarts, this comprehensive baker's book is great for budding chefs. While the recipes are a little more complex for a beginner, they make the perfect challenge for kiddos looking to up their skills.
Whether it’s a rainy Sunday or an almost-summer kind of day, books are always a win. This month there are a tremendous selection of books—from Drag Queens to yoga to camping and so much more! We’ve read every one of these with our own kids (or they read them for us) so we know these are kid-approved, too. Read on!
Pride 123
Simon & Schuster
Out in time for Pride Month (June) this early reader board book is the perfect way to engage kids, especially if you can't attend a Pride Parade this year. "1 Parade in the month of June/2 DJ's spin fabulous tunes." Michael Joosten's rhyming prose is perfectly accompanied by Wednesday Holme's bright illustrations.
Wishing you were camping right now? Whether your kids love camping or not, they’ll love this book by Jennifer K. Mann. Ernestine's been invited to go on her first camping trip with her aunt, Jackie. She needs a new sleeping bag and new flashlight, of course. But these are plenty of other new things she encounters as the book unfolds. At its heart Ernestine's is a story about how to approach new situations, especially ones that are challenging.
Seattle-based author, Kerri Kokias and illustrator Mike Lowery retells this German story that introduces kids to Hans, a horse who can tell time, count, solve equations, even spell. Hans’s amazing abilities draw as many crowds as they do questions, and eventually people start to wonder if this horse really is as clever as he seems. Find out how the mystery of Hans’s intelligence is solved (or is it?) when you read this playful book.
At home with the kids? We've got a plan for that! Read Laurie Ann Thompson’s upcoming book Elizabeth Warren’s Big, Bold Plans to your kids. This picture book bio chronicles the Senator’s life from childhood, to teacher, to lawyer, to presidential hopeful. Susanna Chapman’s beautiful illustrations make Warren’s impressive life story accessible to kids of all ages.
The shoulders on the drag queen go shimmy, shimmy, shimmy...all through the town.
Fans of Drag Queen Story Hours around the country will love this book from Lil' Miss Hot Mess, one of the first Queens to host DQSH. Bright, playful illustrations by Olga de Dios add the perfect touch to this update on the classic "wheels on the bus" song that aims to teach little kids everywhere...there's nothing wrong with a little swish in your step.
This story about a little girl who is very close with her grandma and the girl's experience as her grandma's dementia progresses. It is an excellent child's eye view of this often confusing and heartbreaking disease and a great tool for parents and caregivers to engage kids in the conversation of aging, dementia and alzheimers.
With bright watercolor illustrations, this book tells the story of how an imaginative lion named Guion shows his friends how to see magic in their everyday world. Inspired by the author's three kids, including her oldest with Down syndrome, the book shows readers how to change their perspective and find a little magic in their own lives too. The book ends with suggestions for fun activities for families to play together, building on the themes in the book.
Yoga Animals: A Wild Introduction to Kid-Friendly Poses
National Geographic Kids Books
Tara Stiles new book helps kids go with the flow––yoga flow, that is. This introduction to the practice of yoga helps kids learn basic poses by curling like a cat, stretching like a dog and bending like a gorilla! The perfect way to do yoga as a family, the picture-based work offers both the animal and actual names of poses, along with detailed instructions on how to do each pose so everyone stays safe.
Sometimes, you just need a good dog mystery in your life. Join Scout and her doggy detective friends as they em"bark" on a mission to find out what's amiss at the local dog park. Written by Brandi Dougherty with illustrations by Paige Pooler.
What's better: a slice of pizza or a crunchy taco? In this graphic novel, the first of a series, kids are introduced to besties Pizza and Taco who have a friendly-ish competition to find out who is really, truly the best. In the end, they find out being best friends is best. Written and illustrated by Stephen Shaskan.
.Another awesome Epic! Originals book, Out of Time: Lost on the the Titanic takes us along with siblings Allie and Vic, their buddy Max and their puppy, as they travel back in time to the deck of the RMS Titanic. Written by Jessica Rinker and illustrated by Bethany Stancliffe.
Adventures in Kindness: 52 Awesome Kid Adventures for Building a Better World
Mission Partners, Benefit LLC
Written by a mother-daughter duo, this interactive activity book is perfect for adventurous spirits. Packed with ideas on how to make the world better, families can get inspired by plenty of ways on how to help out their schools, communities and those around them, like learning how to tip generously, say hello in 35 languages and more.
Katarina's dreams are bigger than city life. The ten-year-old has it in her heart to become the best: a prima ballerina. Despite not having any training, Katarina sets out to win a coveted spot in an international dance camp that is sure to make her a start.
This is the second middle grade novel from Bay Area author Mae Respicio and it is full of Filipino folklore, history and cuisine. Any Day with You is a warm, tender story about a creative girl who hopes that by winning a filmmaking contest, she’ll convince her great-grandfather not to move back home to the Philippines.
James Patterson's novel Jacky Ha-Ha adapted by Adam Rau comes to life as the first-ever graphic novel from James Patterson! Based on the adventures of class clown Jacky Ha-Ha, who uses humor to keep kids from laughing at her and to keep herself distracted from not-very-funny, real life situations like her mom fighting in a far-away war and her semi-absent father.
This graphic novel about the realities of a blended family, from the point of view of young Jen, will entertain kids while bringing to light the definition of family and love. Jen doesn't want to leave the city, or her dad, to live with her mom and new step-dad on a farm. And she doesn't want to (but she does) compare herself to her new step-sister, who seems to get everything right when Jen does everything wrong. Brings the complexities of family life, divorce and blending families to the table in an easy-to-read and share format. Funny, too! Based on author illustrator Lucy Knisley's real life.
June is national LGBTQ Pride Month and New York hosts one of the biggest Pride Parades in the country, so it’s only fitting that it should also be home to the world’s smallest Pride Parade.
At the LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Westchester visitors are invited to attend the world’s smallest Pride Parade through the streets of a miniature New York City, all made out of your favorite plastic bricks.
To commemorate the fifty years since the Stonewall riots that brought LGBTQ rights to the public eye, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Westchester has transformed its MINILAND Times Square streets with rainbow flags, “Pride” and “Love is Love” floats and a ‘Stonewall 50’ billboard.
The parade and rainbows will be marching through MINILAND Times Square streets all month long until the real NYC Pride Parade on Jun. 30.
—Shahrzad Warkentin
All photos: Courtesy of LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester
Oh, Lakeview. The place where it’s equally cool to stay a kid forever and become a parent. Between the Wrigley Field shenanigans and the awesome parks and the lakefront magic and the bustling streets you will never be bored here. And neither will your kids. Here are 10 signs that you’re living it up as a mom or dad in Lakeview.
1. The French Market at Nettelhorst on Saturdays is THE place to be.
photo: Nettelhorst French Market
2. You can NOT leave Trader Joe’s on Diversey if you have not located Joe-Joe the Penguin because that’s how you get a lollipop at checkout!
8. You know that if you get to Mia Francesca’s before 6 p.m. on a weekend night, it’s super kid-friendly.
photo: Mia Francesca’s
9. You know the names of everyone who works at Stella’s Diner and The Bagel and could drop your kids off for babysitting there in a pinch.
photo: Stella’s Diner
10. Trick or treating happens at businesses on Broadway the Sunday before Halloween so kids can get even MORE candy!
photo: Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce
What do YOU think is a sign that you’re a Lakeview parent? Let us know in the Comments!
— Story by the fun folks at NPN (Neighborhood Parents Network)
Neighborhood Parents Network (NPN) has been connecting a diverse community of families with the resources they need to navigate parenting in the city for 35 years! NPN is essential for all expecting, new and seasoned parents.
