As the nation becomes more diverse, so should learning and playtime. Here is a list of toys, games and books that encourage children to express themselves, learn about other cultures and explore African-American history.
Hearts for Hearts Girls Dolls
Every doll is inspired by girls from around the world, and each comes with her own story and ideas about how to make life better for her family, community, country and the world. Buy here.
Kaplan Shake, Rattle and Beat Bag
This unique set of multicultural instruments will get bodies moving to the rhythm and allow for creative music-making. Buy here.
Culturally Diverse People Kit
These kits provide a great way for children to express themselves when doing an “All About Me” project. Buy here.
Crayola Washable Multicultural Colors Markers
Skin-toned colors add realistic hues to projects on diversity and self-awareness. Buy here.
School Smart Modeling Dough in Multicultural Colors
The soft, pliable dough can be used to create masterpieces that reflect the diversity of people around the world. Buy here.
Natural Girls and Women United Customized Dolls
This company makes customized dolls with hair that looks and feels like that of ethnic women and girls. Buy here.
History in Action Toys Action Figures
The company wants children to see themselves reflected in the faces of their toys. Buy here.
Black Heritage: The Underground Railroad Game
Children will relive the African-American struggle for freedom and learn about the courage it took for slaves to escape to the North when playing this game. Buy here.
Brain Quest Black History
This game is a great way for children to test their knowledge of 5,000 years of heroism, culture, struggle and achievement. Buy here.
Diverse Rhythms Music
This multipack of CDs introduces children to the world through upbeat and culturally authentic music. Buy here.
LEGO Education DUPLO World People Set
This set is an ideal supplement to any LEGO DUPLO play theme, which allows children to recreate scenes that reflect today’s diverse society and develop cultural and generational awareness. Buy here.
Of Thee I Sing: A Letter to My Daughters, by Barack Obama
In this letter to his daughters, President Barack Obama writes a moving tribute to 13 groundbreaking Americans and the ideals that have shaped the nation. Buy here.
Amazing Grace, by Mary Hoffman
With the support of her family, Grace learns that she can be anything she wants to be, and the results are amazing. Buy here.
Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story From the Underground Railroad, by Ellen Levine
This book tells the dramatic story of a slave who mails himself to freedom. Buy here.
Childcraft Multicultural Foods Play Set
Children learn about food from various cultures and compare cultures and traditions. Buy here.
Total Nonstop Action Wrestling Action Figures
TNA is the newest professional wrestling league. Fans of the franchise can now collect action figures of their favorite wrestlers. Buy here.
Lakeshore Multicultural Clothing Set
This collection of authentic costumes lets children explore clothing from around the world by playing dress-up. Buy here.
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