Pat ElliottWestminster SLS Librarian’s view: I work with London school children as both a librarian and heritage educator, and regularly meet pupils with special needs as well as those from diverse cultural and social backgrounds. It never ceases to amaze me how very young children unquestionably accept and accommodate the differences they perceive in those around them; but the growing child is influenced by the mindsets of those they encounter. Picture books, like Elmer, which explore positive attitudes and friendship, can become a valuable tool for encouraging discussion with young children about the importance of embracing and celebrating our …
