Confession: I was skeptical when first heard about Ditto Kids Magazine last summer. While I have always worked to bring inclusive and diverse books into our home and our blog, the volume of antiracist book recommendations I got over the summer- for myself and my kids- was overwhelming. When I was finally able to look into it, I was so impressed I purchased it immediately. This is not an ad or sponsored post. This magazine aligned so clearly with my own goals and work for my family I couldn’t wait to bring it into our home.
First off, it’s a magazine, but it’s built to last. The paper is thick and sturdy, so you can read it many times without it getting bent or ripped. I am planning to take this on our upcoming road trip and know it’ll travel beautifully.
Creator Alexandria Scott’s goals are to give caregivers inspiration and tools to do their own reflection and development on being more antibiased in order to raise kids who approach the world without bias as well. The parent section in the back of the magazine is a quick 4 page read with short pieces- including a collection of quotations for consideration and reflection. I love when I have new strategies, especially those that are quick and powerful, even more so as we are still experiencing compromised capacity in this pandemic. Scott guides caregivers to read the section in the back, and the whole magazine first before reading with kids.
That part may be hard to do going forward in my home because it is an instant hit here! The rest of the magazine is a collection of writings, drawings, photos, and activities for kids and caregivers to engage with centered on a decolonized and antibias approach to social studies and history. It helps kids to reflect on their own self identity and acceptance, consider and demonstrate acceptance for those who are similar to and different from them, and learn to take action when they see inequity in the world. It’s perfect for kids around 3-11 years of age.
This issue is focused on family and community, and people from all over the world and different experiences are represented. There are stone sculptures mixed in with drawings right next to incredible paintings, all showing different types of families.
There’s a self-reflection section for kid readers about belonging, just as you are with your own strengths and things that are tricky.
There’s a mad libs section that celebrates similarities and differences.
There is even a cut-out-craft!
Because of the pandemic and also just getting started, Ditto Kids Magazine is planning their second issue of the year now. We will be eagerly awaiting ours. If you want to order your own, you can purchase on the Ditto Kids Magazine website. We would love to hear your favorite parts when you read it! Drop a comment below!