As educators, we spend our lives with the children and young people our schools and systems were built to serve, but with increasing pressures from in and out of education,it can be easy to forget that even our oldest students are still developing.
International Youth Day, celebrated August 12th, is an opportunity to honor the potential, creativity, and spirit of young people worldwide. It’s a time for educators to inspire their students, fostering empathy, understanding, and a sense of global citizenship.
Below is a curated list of children’s books that can help teachers, families, and students celebrate International Youth Day in 2024:
“Malala’s Magic Pencil” by Malala Yousafzai
This autobiographical picture book tells the story of Malala Yousafzai, who dreams of a magic pencil that can change the world. As she grows older, she realizes the real magic lies in her words and actions. Malala’s story is a powerful example of courage and the impact of education. It teaches students about the importance of speaking up for their rights. Students learn about the struggles of children in different parts of the world, fostering a sense of empathy and global awareness.
Consider inviting students to speak and/or write about what they would do with a magic pencil. Discuss the importance of education and how they can contribute to their communities.
“The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson
Woodson tells the story of a group of children who feel like outsiders for various reasons. The characters find common ground and acceptance after sharing their unique stories. It encourages students to embrace their differences and recognize the beauty of diversity. By seeing the world through the eyes of others, students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of their peers’ unique experiences.
Engage students in a “story circle” where they can share something unique about themselves. You might have students bring a photo, personal illustration (digital or on paper), or artifact to support their story. Guide students in a discussion of how diversity and getting to know each other in new ways enrich the classroom community.
“Last Stop on Market Street” by Matt de la Peña
CJ and his grandmother ride the bus across town, and along the way, CJ learns to see the beauty in the everyday world around him. This book highlights the importance of gratitude and seeing the positives in life. It helps students appreciate different perspectives and understand the importance of community. It can also be a reminder for us that children’s points of view can be quite different from adults’, but they are equally valuable.
Take a local community walk or bus ride, or explore virtually if leaving the school is not a possibility, to observe and appreciate the surroundings. Have students share what they find beautiful or interesting in their everyday environment.
“Wonder” by R.J. Palacio
Auggie Pullman, a boy with a facial difference, starts school for the first time and faces challenges and triumphs as he seeks to be seen as just another student. This novel teaches the importance of kindness, acceptance, and the impact of bullying. Not only can students learn to look beyond appearances and appreciate people’s inner qualities, but it is clear that children have the power to make life better for their peers.
- Talk through the importance of empathy and connection in our everyday interactions in and out of school. Initiate a “Choose Kind” campaign where students perform acts of kindness and reflect on and share their experiences.
“Ada Twist, Scientist” by Andrea Beaty
Ada Twist is a curious young girl with a passion for science. Her constant questions and experiments sometimes lead to trouble, but her perseverance and curiosity are celebrated. It promotes curiosity, critical thinking, and the value of perseverance. Students learn to support and encourage each other’s interests and passions.
- Organize a “share fair” where students can present and answer questions about their creative endeavors whether artwork, writing, performance, or experiments and discoveries. Encourage students to ask questions and set goals to explore and share their interests.
“Esperanza Rising” by Pam Muñoz Ryan
After a tragic event, Esperanza and her mother are forced to leave their wealthy life in Mexico and work in a labor camp in California during the Great Depression. This story teaches resilience, adaptation, and the importance of hope. Some students will see their own experiences reflected in this story and all learners gain insight into the immigrant experience and the challenges faced by families seeking a better life.
- Have students research and present on the history of immigration in the U.S. Discuss themes of resilience and how they can apply these lessons in their own lives.
“The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind” by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
This true story follows William Kamkwamba, a boy from Malawi who builds a windmill to bring electricity and water to his drought-stricken village. It emphasizes innovation, problem-solving, and the impact one person, in this case a determined young man, can have on their community. Students learn about life in Malawi and the challenges faced by communities without access to basic resources, but the story celebrates the ingenuity and resilience of the people.
- Transfer the lessons from this story and encourage students to identify a problem or puzzle in their community, research it and similar issues in other communities, and brainstorm innovative solutions. Discuss the importance of creativity, innovative or “outsider” thinking, and perseverance in overcoming obstacles and the unique perspectives young people bring to lasting issues.
Our hope is that sharing one or more of these books with young people at school, at home, or in your community will create opportunities for them to see themselves in the stories of others, develop empathy and understanding, and inspire them to make their mark on the world.
What Can I Do?
- Consider purchasing one of these books, or a personal favorite, that celebrates the spirit of International Youth Day, and donating it to a “little library” or school in your area.
- Volunteer to read at a local school, daycare facility, or community center.
- Talk to the children in your life about the power they have to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of others.
- Reach out, connect, and share an experience with a child or children in your area.
