Children need both windows and mirrors in stories to experience the world anew

In today’s interconnected world, understanding and appreciating diversity is more crucial than ever. For our children, this begins with education. But how can we effectively educate children about the tapestry of human experience? The answer may lie in the stories we share with them. Stories have the ability to act as “windows” and “mirrors” for young minds, offering them perspectives that are both reflective of their own lives, as well as glimpses into the lives of others. As a parent, teacher, or anybody playing an important role in the life of a child, it’s important to understand this concept of windows and mirrors in children’s literature, and why this idea is so integral to nurturing a well-rounded, empathetic individual.

The importance of mirrors

Seeing themselves

The concept of mirrors in children’s literature refers to stories that reflect a child’s own experience, culture, heritage, and identity. For children of color and those belonging to minority communities, this is especially important. Representation matters. When a child reads a story featuring characters who look like them, share their traditions, or navigate similar life challenges, they see a validation of their own existence and worth. This is not just comforting; it’s empowering.

Building self-esteem and purpose

Reading stories that mirror one’s own life can have a profound impact on self-esteem. Children who see themselves represented are more likely to feel that they too can achieve great things. It encourages them to dream big and reinforces the principle that every person is wonderfully made, with a unique purpose to fulfill.

The importance of windows

Expanding horizons

While mirrors reflect our own lives back at us, windows offer us a view into someone else’s world. Stories that serve as windows enable children to learn about lives, cultures, and experiences different from their own. This is an important step in fostering empathy, understanding, and respect for diversity.

Bridging gaps

Reading about other cultures and experiences can help break down the barriers of misunderstanding that often lead to prejudice. Windows into other lives teach children to love their neighbors—whether those people truly are next door or they’re halfway around the world—by helping them see the humanity in all people.

Taking a balanced approach

The ideal educational landscape incorporates a balanced mix of both windows and mirrors. Children need both to grow into well-rounded individuals who are rooted in their own identity and heritage while also being open and accepting of others.

In our pursuit of a more empathetic and harmonious society, it is vital that we provide children with both windows and mirrors in their education. Stories are a powerful medium for this, providing children of color with essential representation while introducing all children to the beautiful diversity of the human experience.

As Charlotte Mason wrote, “The question is not, — how much does the youth know? when he has finished his education — but how much does he care? and about how many orders of things does he care? In fact, how large is the room in which he finds his feet set? and, therefore, how full is the life he has before him?” Let us raise children in large rooms, with full lives, and most importantly, with great care.