Embracing Diversity and Self-Love
Shades of YOU, 100 Shades of Black and R.E.A.P (Racial Equity Appreciation Project)
“Shades of You, 100 Shades of Black” is a captivating book that celebrates diversity, racial identity, and self-love among young children. Through a vivid spectrum of black hues, this color therapy picture book captures the beauty of various skin tones of African descendants from around the world. From “Celestial Super Black” to “Melanin Popping Black,” each shade is adorned with a name that instills pride and empowerment.
The book’s key messages revolve around self-acceptance and uniqueness, fostering a strong foundation of self-esteem and positive self-image in children. Additionally, it serves as an essential tool in promoting the embrace of individuality and dismantling colorism. The accompanying “Shades of YOU” racial equity appreciation project (R.E.A.P) further encourages children to creatively explore and appreciate the distinct beauty of each shade.
With its powerful affirmations and engaging activities, the project aims to improve racial socialization and support children in embracing their uniqueness. By involving the community in this meaningful endeavor, “Shades of You, 100 Shades of Black” contributes to the creation of a more inclusive and accepting society. This invaluable resource is ideal for educators, parents, and caregivers, promoting a culture of pride in diversity and individuality.
Interactive Exercises
Engaging activities that encourage children to reflect on and express their understanding of racial identity and diversity.
Creative Artwork
Visual art prompts and coloring exercises that celebrate the beauty of diverse skin tones and promote inclusivity.
Reflection Prompts
Thought-provoking questions and prompts for self-reflection, encouraging students to embrace their uniqueness and appreciate the diversity around them.
“Celebrating Diversity, Harvesting Equity”
The R.E.A.P (Racial Equity Appreciation Project) aims to promote racial equity and appreciation among young children through creative exploration of skin tones, fostering self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-acceptance. It also serves to dismantle colorism, foster pride in diversity and individuality, and engage the community in meaningful endeavors that contribute to creating a more inclusive and accepting society. The program includes engaging activities, reflective journals, and a final project presentation to showcase the students’ creative works and reflections, all aimed at empowering children to embrace their racial identity and celebrate diversity.
Shades of YOU, 100 Shades of Black Companion Workbook and Curriculum
The companion workbook is thoughtfully crafted to reinforce the key messages of self-acceptance and uniqueness while fostering a strong foundation of self-esteem and positive self-image in children. It provides an interactive space for young learners to creatively explore and appreciate the distinct beauty of each shade through engaging activities and exercises. The workbook includes 6 Lesson Plans, Activity Exercises, Printable Coloring Sheets and Shades of YOU, 100 Shades of Black exhibited artwork.
Usage:
Ideal for educators, parents, and caregivers, the companion workbook and activity pages are essential tools for promoting a culture of pride in diversity and individuality. They can be seamlessly integrated into classroom settings, homeschool environments, or community initiatives to further support children in embracing their racial identity and promoting inclusivity.
The curriculum is tailored for elementary and middle school children, particularly those from diverse backgrounds.
MANTRA 