"A Family is a Family is a Family"
Non-Traditional Families in Picture Books
By Madalyn Rogers, Children's Associate, Hardesty Regional Library
“A Family Is a Family Is a Family” says it all. Families come in all different types and sizes and no one family is “normal.” Whether you live with four aunts, a grandparent, a sibling, or a mom and dad, these picture books show that love is what truly makes a family. These picture books include representations from families across the spectrum. Your family may be big or small, you might not look like each other, or you might come from different places. No matter what makes your family special, what matters is that you’re special together.
Many of these titles also feature families in different walks of life; this makes them excellent resources to help explain changing situations to children. These books are also a great way to introduce your child to family units that look different to theirs. Introducing children to people, places, and cultures that differ from their own is a proven way to increase empathy and acceptance for the world around them.
Exploring different family structures isn’t limited to just human families, though! The titles below feature examples of found families, foster care, and blended families.
Cat Dog Dog: The Story of a Blended Family by Nelly Buchet
The Digger and the Duckling by Joseph Keufler
Spreckle’s Snack Surprise by Sandra Salsbury
No Matter What: A Foster Care Tale by Josh Shipp
Better Together! by Amy Robach
For the full book list, check out Non-Traditional Families in Picture Books or visit your local library!
