At Kids Co., we believe in the power of stories. Stories that open hearts, build understanding, and connect communities. That’s why this April, we’re honoring Arab American Heritage Month by celebrating the vibrant cultures, histories, and contributions of Arab Americans with the people who matter most—our kids.

Understanding and celebrating other cultures helps children build empathy, curiosity, and confidence. It teaches them that the world is beautifully diverse and that every child’s story matters. This month is an opportunity to explore traditions, family journeys, and the unique voices that make our neighborhoods, cities, and country stronger.

When children see themselves and others reflected in books, activities, and classrooms, it sends a powerful message: You belong. Arab American Heritage Month is a chance to help every child feel seen and for all children to learn something new about their friends, families, and themselves. We’re celebrating with five incredible children’s books by and about Arab American voices. These stories offer young readers adventure, courage, resilience, love, and just the right mix of imagination and heart.

Silverworld by Diana Abu-Jaber

A fantasy tale with roots in Arab traditions, this book follows Sami as she enters a magical world to save her grandmother. It’s a story of bravery, family, and the power of believing in yourself and your heritage.

Farah Rocks Fifth Grade by Susan Muaddi Darraj

Meet Farah, a fierce fifth grader juggling school, family, and a new challenge: standing up to a bully targeting her little brother. This story is a reminder that courage and kindness go hand-in-hand and that standing up for others is a superpower.

Salma the Syrian Chef by Ahmad Danny Ramadan

Salma is determined to cook something special to make her mama smile again. With help from her new community, she learns that even when things feel unfamiliar, there’s always room for love, comfort, and connection.

Mama in Congress: Rashida Tlaib’s Journey to Washington by Rashida Tlaib

Through the eyes of her sons, readers get to know Rashida Tlaib, one of the first Muslim women in Congress. This story celebrates family, justice, and never forgetting where you come from.

Egyptian Lullaby by Zeena M. Pliska

A lyrical and loving bedtime story about Cairo, Egypt, this book paints a gentle portrait of place and memory, perfect for winding down while dreaming of distant cities filled with music, color, and warmth.

How You Can Celebrate at Home

• Read together. Ask your child what they liked most about the characters or what they learned about the culture.
  
• Cook a dish from one of the books! Salma’s story is the perfect launchpad for a family cooking night
  
• Talk about family stories. Share a story from your own family’s history and encourage your child to share theirs.
• Celebrate words. Learn a few Arabic words together—like salaam (peace), habibi (my dear), or shukran (thank you).

Arab American Heritage Month is more than a celebration—it’s a chance to model inclusion, compassion, and lifelong learning for our kids. When we make space for every story, we build a world where all children can thrive.

Source:

https://cantonpl.bibliocommons.com/list/share/1958146079/2044836689

You Might Also Like Reading

Dive into Inspiration: Children’s Books that Spark Big Dreams

Books to Learn About Native American Heritage: A Guide for Kids

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Teaching Diversity, Culture, and Language Through Play

Teaching Kids about Diversity and Inclusion