Originally written by Regan McMahon and published on Common Sense Media Reading about characters who are comfortable in their own skins helps kids learn self-acceptance. Check out our top picks for kids body-positive books! We all want to find entertaining reads for our kids and tweens, but unfortunately, even some of the best stories reinforce body and gender stereotypes. You know the ones: girl characters judged by how pretty they are; boys teased if they're not big and strong; boys and girls dissed for being overweight or having freckles or the "wrong" color hair or skin; good-looking protagonists who often have a chubby or scrawny sidekick who'll never be considered cool or attractive. And so on.

Related: How to Raise an Optimistic Human in a Pessimistic World

But we've found some shining examples of books featuring characters who are comfortable with their bodies, no matter their size or shape. They're appreciated for their talent, skills, and integrity, and they don't trade on their looks to get ahead. Check out our full list of kids body-positive books, starring kids (and animals) who are at ease in their own skin — or who learn that's the way to be truly cool. We've highlighted some of our very favorites in this list. Have other recommendations? Let us know on Facebook, and don't forget to SHARE this list with other parents!

Editor's Note: Spine Media has an affiliate partnership with Amazon so we may get a share of the revenue when you purchase through our website.

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