10 LGBTQ+ Bedtime Books for Babies, Toddlers, and Proud Parents

Inclusive books matter

Books shape how children learn about society and norms, in part through representation of different characters. So let's fill those bedtime routines with stories that show love in all its forms, because every family deserves to see themselves in "happily ever after."

Why these books are great for kids:

• Mirroring moments: Kids with LGBTQ+ family members can see themselves reflected, validating their experiences

• Window opportunities: All children learn about different family structures, building empathy

• Bias busters: Research indicates that children need access to authentic and accurate representations and role models related to their cultural, linguistic and social backgrounds

The research is loud and clear. Children's literature can potentially:

• promote awareness of individual differences and similarities

• foster acceptance of self and others

• provide information that counteracts ignorance, misperceptions and stereotypes

This awareness, acceptance and knowledge should ultimately contribute to greater understanding, empathy and respect for diversity. These books are basically empathy training wheels.

LGBTQ+ bedtime bookshelf: 10 books to love

1. "Mommy, Mama, and Me" by Lesléa Newman, illustrated by Carol Thompson

This board book classic captures a day in the life of a toddler with two moms. From playing dress-up to bath time giggles, it's all about the everyday magic of family life. The rhythmic text and gentle illustrations make it perfect for sleepy little ones who love routine and repetition.

Sweet dreams factor: Familiar daily routines + loving family = the ultimate recipe for peaceful sleep.

2. "And Tango Makes Three" by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell, illustrated by Henry Cole

Based on the true story of two male penguins at the Central Park Zoo, "And Tango Makes Three" is a sweet story and playful introduction to same-sex families. Roy and Silo's journey to parenthood is both heartwarming and matter-of-fact, proving that penguin families (like human ones) come in all shapes and sizes.

Sweet dreams factor: Animal families are inherently soothing, and this one's extra cozy with its themes of love and belonging.

3. "The Family Book" by Todd Parr

With Parr's signature bright colors and simple style, this book celebrates all kinds of families. Some families have two moms or two dads, some have one parent, some are big, some are small, but they all love each other. It's like a warm hug in book form.

Sweet dreams factor: The reassuring message that all families are special helps kids feel secure and loved.

4. "Julián is a Mermaid" by Jessica Love

Julián loves mermaids. On the way home from swimming with his abuela, he becomes entranced with the mermaids he sees on the train: women in beautiful, shimmering gowns, who seem so confident. When they get home, Julián transforms into a mermaid himself. But what will his abuela think? Beautifully illustrated and full of love, this book will swiftly become a favorite.

Sweet dreams factor: The unconditional love between Julián and his abuela is the ultimate comfort read, perfect as kids begin exploring their own identity.

5. "I Love You Because I Love You" by Muon Thi Van, illustrated by Jessica Love

This warm and lovely book celebrates love and the many ways we express it. With gentle, poetic language and beautiful watercolor illustrations, it explores the simple truth that love doesn't need a reason – it just is. Perfect for families of all configurations.

Sweet dreams factor: Pure love and acceptance wrapped in gorgeous artwork = instant sleepiness.

6. "Saturday Is Pancake Day" by Bernadette Green, illustrated by Daniel Gray-Barnett

A hilarious story of luring a parent out of bed, this book features a two-dad family and their Saturday morning pancake tradition. It's funny, relatable, and celebrates the silly moments that make family life special. Plus, who doesn't love pancakes?

Sweet dreams factor: Family traditions and weekend rituals create that cozy, secure feeling perfect for bedtime.

7. "Neither" by Airlie Anderson

This book is the perfect reminder to get us out of strict 'either/or' thinking. In a world full of blue bunnies and yellow birds, a baby that is not quite a bunny or a bird hatches. In the land of This and That, what happens to those who don't fit in?

Sweet dreams factor: Finding where you belong is the ultimate comfort story, perfect for kids who feel different.

8. "Leo and the Pink Marker" by Mariyka Foster

Inspired by (but diverging from) the classic "Harold and the Purple Crayon," this story follows Leo as he creates colorful adventures with his pink marker while his two moms aren't looking. It's about creativity, imagination, and the magic of making your own rules.

Sweet dreams factor: Creative adventures that end safely at home makes for the perfect wind-down story.

9. "Just Us" by Molly Beth Griffin, illustrated by Anait Semirdzhyan

A comforting story about embracing change, this book features a two-mom family navigating the holidays. With cozy winter imagery and themes of love and adaptation, it's perfect for snuggling up together.

Sweet dreams factor: Holiday warmth and family togetherness create that magical sleepy atmosphere.

10. "Bathe the Cat" by Alice B. McGinty, illustrated by David Roberts

Get ready to laugh out loud with your little one! In this playful, rhyming story, Dad and Papa are racing to tidy up the house before Grandma arrives, including the impossible task of bathing the cat. But the clever cat has a few tricks up its sleeve. With joyful illustrations and a family led by two loving dads of color, this book is fresh, fun, and oh so joyful.

Sweet dreams factor: It's a funny celebration of family chaos and clever pets, guaranteed to provide a few bedtime giggles.

4 tips on making bedtime reading more inclusive

1. Keep it natural. You don't need a PowerPoint presentation about diversity. Just read the story like any other book. Kids are pros at accepting love in all its forms; they just need to see it normalized.

2. Answer questions simply. "Why does Emma have two moms?" "Because that's her family! Some families have a mom and dad, some have two moms, some have two dads, and some have just one parent. All families are different, and that's pretty cool, right?"

3. Make connections. "Remember when we read about Tango's penguin dads? That's like your friend Sam's family!" Those connections help children understand the world around them.

4. Create a diverse bookshelf. Don't make LGBTQ+ books a special occasion thing. Mix them in with all your other stories. Representation should be as normal as brushing one's teeth before bed.

Because every family deserves sweet dreams

At Napper, we believe bedtime should be a source of comfort for every family, regardless of what that family looks like. When your little one sees their family reflected in bedtime stories, something magical happens: the world feels a little less scary, a little more welcoming.

Our app celebrates all families navigating those special moments during bedtime routines. Because whether you have two moms, two dads, one parent, or a whole village raising your little one, we all share one universal truth: we just want our kids to sleep.

Beyond the bookshelf

Children's books can create opportunities for children to see themselves as well as others in different settings and stories, but cultural details and specificity within these stories can play an important role in the messages that children take away. These books aren't just about checking a diversity box. They're about:

• Building empathy muscles: Books with varying perspectives reflect our diverse world

• Preventing bullying: Understanding often leads to acceptance

• Strengthening family bonds: Every family deserves to see themselves as the heroes of bedtime stories

Making it stick: Year-round representation tips

1. Library adventures: Make finding new inclusive stories a monthly adventure at your local library

2. Gift wisely: Choose inclusive books for birthday presents and baby showers

3. Start conversations: Use stories as jumping-off points for age-appropriate discussions about diversity

Love makes a family

As you tuck your little one in tonight, remember that the stories we tell shape the world they'll create tomorrow. Books are an important way in which children learn about themselves, others and the world around them. So whether your family has two moms, two dads, or any other beautiful configuration, these books prove one thing: love is what makes a family. And hopefully, what makes a sleeping child.

P.S. If your kiddo asks to read "And Tango Makes Three" for the 97th night in a row, just remember: repetition is how they learn. You've got this, and yes, penguins can make you cry.