Hello friends, I’m so pleased to tell you about a recent collaboration with my local public library to raise awareness about both ageism and Age Positive picture books.
With Ageism Awareness Day looming on October 7, 2023 I reached out to my community library’s manager about a potential display of literature and picture books at the library. Fortunately she was interested, and we quickly agreed on sharing the information in a brief poster, along with a flyer/handout to give out.
She asked me to put picture books on hold using my library card. That way she was able to display some books, and have others ready for interested parents to check out.
See the American Society on Aging website for more information on their efforts around Ageism Awareness Day.
This website and “A is for Aging” blog are resources for Age Positive picture books minus age stereotypes. (See the “picture books” tab at www.Lindseymcdivitt.com or www.A-is-for-Aging.com )
This display was a small start (something I’ve pondered before and not acted on), but I’m hoping others will partner with their public and school librarians on an ageism awareness display. Take a peek below at the information and resources we shared for Ageism Awareness Day.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions!
Our POSTER shared with the picture book display, text below:
Ageism Awareness Day is an opportunity to draw attention to the existence & impact of ageism in our society and reframe aging.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared ageism a threat to global health. The harmful effects of ageism begin early in childhood.
Ageism is defined as “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudices (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.” (WHO)
- Much of what we think we know about aging is a myth or stereotype.
- Our long term health and well-being will be greatly impacted by our attitudes to aging.
- Research by Becca Levy Ph.D shows us that “ageism is associated with earlier death (by 7.5 years), poorer physical and mental health, and slower recovery from disability in older age…” (WHO).
*Scan QR code to go to American Society on Aging’s ageism fact sheet.
Our flyer/handout with resources (shared in a 2 column format), text below:
Ageism Awareness Day is an opportunity to draw attention to the existence & impact of ageism in our society and reframe aging.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared ageism a threat to global health. The harmful effects of ageism begin early in childhood.
Ageism is defined as “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudices (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.” (WHO)
- Aging is living. Much of what we think we know about aging is a myth or stereotype.
- Our long term health and well-being will be greatly impacted by our attitudes to aging.
- Research by Becca Levy Ph.D shows us that “ageism is associated with earlier death (by 7.5 years), poorer physical and mental health, and slower recovery from disability in older age…” (WHO).
2nd column:
“Ageism and Age stereotypes are often internalized at a young age…children are familiar with age stereotypes, which are reinforced over their lifetimes.” (ASA)
Age Positive picture books can counteract age stereotypes.
Search out older characters that remind us all–celebrating many birthdays is a good thing!
Picture books with accurate and positive images of aging can change attitudes and show:
- A diverse group of older adults with knowledge, inner strength & creativity
- Skills & strengths created by years of experience
- Valuable friendships between generations
Resources:
— How Old Am I? by Julie Pugeat
—The Truth about Grandparents by Elina Ellis
—A Plan for the People: Nelson Mandela’s Hope for his Nation
By Lindsey McDivitt
—Just Like Grandma by Kim Rogers
—Ten Beautiful Things by Molly Beth Griffin
—Henri’s Scissors by Jeanette Winter
—A Morning with Grandpa by Sylvia Liu
—Abuelita and I Make Flan by Adriana Hernandez Bergstrom
—It Jes’ Happened by Don Tate
—I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark
by Debbie Levy
—Ten Ways to Hear Snow by Cathy Camper
—Tofu Takes Time by Helen Wu
—Nature’s Friend: The Gwen Frostic Story
by Lindsey McDivitt
—Mr. McGinty’s Monarchs by Linda Vander Heyden
—A River of Words: The story of William Carlos Williams
by Jen Bryant
—Northwoods Girl by Aimee Bissonette
—Brand New Bubbe by Sarah Aronson
—Big Papa and the Time Machine by Daniel Bernstrom
