GROW Through Children’s Literature with Social Emotional Themes, Vocabulary and Concepts

• In Event: Promoting Activism and Social Change Through Diverse Children's Literature

Abstract

This research stems from an ongoing community engagement initiative at an afterschool childcare center that serves families in a local, underserved community. Guided by Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy and the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) framework, we describe key features and methodological approach for the selection of multicultural literature. We outline key characteristics of recommended picturebooks and provide evidence-based strategies for promoting both vocabulary acquisition and SEL through read-aloud experiences.

Authors

• Susan V Bennett, University of South Florida

• AnnMarie Alberton Gunn, University of South Florida

• Margaret L Robertson Stemme, University of South Florida

• Emily McConnaughy, University of South Florida