Kids spend a majority of their childhood and adolescence in the classroom, making it crucial that they feel valued, connected, and a part of the school community. Through the power of books, you can cultivate students’ sense of belonging and create opportunities for every child to thrive in the school environment and beyond.
Belonging lays the foundation for a supportive school culture where kids feel seen, heard, and embraced. A sense of belonging is an important catalyst of students’ engagement in learning and their academic success. When students feel like they’re a part of the school community, they are more likely to form positive relationships with classmates and teachers, develop friendships, participate actively in class, and be inspired to learn and grow.
Use this curated list of books to promote a sense of belonging in your classroom. Stories have the ability to transport students into worlds that mirror their own and highlight the perspectives of others. From relatable narratives to diverse characters, these books are great tools for creating a more inclusive, connected, and enriching learning environment.
For instance, Perfect is a playful picture book about a fussy eraser and a mischievous pencil who learn to work together despite their differences. This lighthearted story shares important lessons about empathy, mutual respect, and the beauty of teamwork and collaboration with other students.
Meanwhile, Save Me a Seat is a captivating read about two unlikely friends who find common ground in standing up against the class bully. Shedding light on the challenges of fitting in, this title explores how Joe and Ravi support each other in finding who they are and where they belong.
Moreover, When the World Turned Upside Down features a diverse cast of characters who come together to help their neighbors in need during the pandemic. Use this activity guide — filled with writing prompts, fill-in poems, self-care tips, and other engaging activities — to help students explore what makes them unique and how they fit into the world.
Shop books about belonging to add to your classroom library below! You can find all books and activities at The Teacher Store.