The Big Umbrella

We’ve entered a new month with another great, equity-focused story: The Big Umbrella.

The Big Umbrella by Amy June Bates uses a simple umbrella as a metaphor for inclusion, hospitality, and welcoming others. The book features vivid illustrations that encourage open-ended thinking about a shelter that keeps people warm and dry while bringing them together.

Through discussions and meaningful activities, the children will brainstorm how to motivate each other and include peers in play, conversations, and problem-solving—both inside and outside the classroom.

You can continue this work at home by reading or listening to The Big Umbrella and taking a “picture walk.” Try looking at the illustrations before reading the text, giving your child the chance to generate their own ideas and questions about what the story might be about. While reading, talk with your child about small acts of kindness you’ve done or can do in your community, imagining who you can invite under your own “imaginary umbrella.”

Ongoing conversations and shared stories about inclusion provide children with valuable opportunities to practice empathy, tolerance, and acceptance, helping to foster a natural culture of kindness.