Today's Lesson: The Experiences of Women in America
Sexism in the United States has historically been linked to the experiences of women and girls and its effects include gendered stereotypes, tropes, and/or pre-defined roles, as well as historically lower pay, a lack of access to equal education or adequate healthcare, and underrepresentation in our political system. While these conversations can be complex—and often we don’t know where to begin—we believe beginning with our littlest ones can have the most long-term impact, both individually and as a society. We hope you will find the resources below helpful in finding a good jumping off point when it comes to talking to children about what it means to be a woman in America, celebrating their influence, experiences, contributions, leadership, and accomplishments.
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Learning Levels
Early Childhood Adolescent AdultRead
Think Big Little One
Featuring eighteen women creators, ranging from writers to inventors, artists to scientists, this board book adaptation of Little Dreamers: Visionary Women Around the World introduces trailblazing women. The irresistible full-color illustrations in Think Big Little One show the Dreamers as both accessible and aspirational so reader knows they, too, can grow up to do something amazing.
EXTRA CREDIT: In rhyming prose, The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin tells the story of Temple Grandin, who was diagnosed with autism at a young age. Throughout the story, children will see how Temple used her unique mind and visual thinking skills to become an amazing scientist.
Watch
Change The World
This inspirational anthem featuring Segi from everyone’s favorite, Sesame Street, encourages girls to dream big! And it is true what Segi says, girls can change the world and be anything they want to be. This resource teaches self-empowerment and is good for all children to experience.
EXTRA CREDIT: In this video from Let's Learn, Yael Leopold and her daughter, Journey, read Layla's Happiness by Mariahadessa Ekere Tallie. This story is about individual happiness and finding joy in everyday life, and you can read along with Yael and Journey.
Listen
The PINKALICIOUS & PETERRIFIC Podcast
One way we can help children accept others is to encourage them express themselves creatively and helping them understand it’s okay to be different. The PINKALICIOUS & PETERRIFIC Podcast is an extension of the hit PBS KIDS series and follows Pinkalicious and her little brother Peter on “pinkatastic” adventures, encouraging kids to dance, sing, make believe, and express themselves through the creative arts.