*** For those interested in the 3:30  Educators' Workshop  - We are almost sold out!  To be placed on the waiting list or to receive information about future workshops please contact parentingforpeace@gmail.com or add your name at http://www.p4pfall2011.eventbrite.com

BOOKS AS BRIDGES

From picture books to young adult fiction, children's literature can expose us to an endless array of images and narratives.  However, studies show that children's books often unwittingly portray characters in sterotypical ways. Furthermore, the preponderance of characters in popular children's books are white.  When books do represent characters of color, adults can be unsure about how to best answer children's questions regarding the differences they notice.

This panel discussion draws on the expertise of Anne Sibley O'Brien, author-illustrator and anti-racist educator, and Krista Aronson, psychology professor and director of the Story Book Project.  They will share their insights about how to select developmentally appropriate books, how to assess representations of people from backgrounds different from your own, and how to best use books as a tool for responding to children's natural curiousity and empathy.  Krista will share research findings that demonstrate that exposure to books that feature positive interactions among an interracial group of children can reduce prejudice in readers.  Together, they  will focus on books which can provoke a conversation and books that serve as catalysts for addressing race. Ample time will be allowed for discussion.  

A book fair with titles for adults and children will occur before and after the session; Anne Sibley O'Brien will be available to sign books.

An educator's workshop will occur earlier in the day - the content is different and interested parents and educators are enthusiastically invited to both events.

Support for this program generously provided by Maine Humanities Council and Fox Intercultural Consulting Services

** Please feel welcome to arrive early to persue the book sale!

*** This event is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC but preregistration is suggested as space is limited. We welcome your donation to support our continued programing - up next, www.michaelthompson-phd.com/ on May 2!