Children’s literature is a key element for their correct neurological and motor development.

Children’s literature is a key element for their correct neurological and motor development, as well as for their understanding of the world that surrounds them. This is one of the reasons why the publishing industry has had to expand and explore topics that capture the attention of little readers simultaneously presenting them the many changes and realities of the world they inhabit. The themes that books want to present nowadays go beyond the classic stories of animal fables with a teaching at the end, they go beyond the stories where characters get lost in the forest and learn one or two lessons along the way. Contemporary tales address topics such as gender and sexuality diversity, empowerment and feminism, the breaking of gender roles and stereotypes in colour association, the understanding of the world through non-hegemonic perspectives, and many others.

And why is it a good idea to introduce these topics to kids? Well, children’s literature helps them understand what happens with their friends, family, environment, emotions, feelings, likes, preferences, and more. It simplifies somewhat difficult concepts from our daily adult lives and makes them digestible. Such ‘innovative’ stories promote empathy by expanding their vision and perception of the world, they make them understand that there is no right answer between pink and blue. If we want children to grow up as people with good values and a solid education, adults who call out problems such as preventing discrimination and prejudice, there is no reason to be afraid of raising children who are socially and emotionally responsible.