It’s time to unlearn pink-for-girls and blue-for-boys, and instead teach…

From baby showers to toy aisles, the colors pink and blue are often used as shorthand for gender. But here’s the problem ~ these color-coded expectations limit our kids before they even get a chance to discover who they are. It’s time to unlearn the idea that pink is just for girls and blue is just for boys ~ and instead teach our children that no one owns the colors.

Because when we let kids explore freely, without labels or limits, they begin to understand that their interests, emotions, and identities are valid no matter what color they love, what clothes they wear, or which toys they choose to play with.

And teaching beyond the binary doesn’t mean stripping away pink or blue. It means expanding what those colors can mean ~ and opening the door to a full rainbow of expression. That’s how we raise children who are more empathetic, more confident, and more inclusive.

The picture books featured on this list below celebrate how *all colors are for everyone,* and can be used to spark conversations that challenge stereotypes, and show kids that identity is something they get to define.

*Wait: So then what colors should we use for baby gender reveals? Well, I’d say let’s just skip the gender reveal altogether.

Picture Books that Teach *All Colors are for Everyone*

Find the full list on Amazon / Bookshop, or click on the individual titles listed below.

No One Owns the Colors by Gianna Davy | Through a non-gendered narrator, the book affirms that all colors belong to everyone ~ no matter their gender, culture, or identity ~ and no color is ever “wrong.”

Who Will You Be? by Taylor Rouanzion | Follow a child’s journey of gender expression through the colors of the rainbow as loving parents introduce their baby to the many vibrant possibilities each day brings. This affirming read is about finding the colors, and identity, that feel just right.

Bling Blaine: Throw Glitter, Not Shade by Rob Sanders | Blaine loves to sparkle, from his cap to his backpack ~ but when others start bullying him for his bling, the joy begins to fade. With the help of his friends, Blaine learns that being yourself shines brightest of all.

Rainbow Boy by Taylor Rouanzion | When asked to choose a favorite color, a little boy struggles to pick just one ~ he loves them all! From his pink tutu to his orange basketball, each color brings him joy in a different way.

Pink is for Everybody by Ella Russell | On a rainy day, a group of kids discovers a pink treasure chest that transforms their gloom into a joyful celebration of self-expression. From dragons to dancers, they explore all the fun pink can be ~ while a grumpy cat reminds them it's okay to like different things.

Except When They Don’t by Laura Gehl | This book challenges gender stereotypes, celebrates kids being exactly who they are, and encourages children to follow their interests ~ no matter what anyone says.

Pink, Blue, and You! by Elise Gravel | An accessible and inclusive picture book that uses simple language and colorful illustrations to challenge gender stereotypes and encourage acceptance. With questions about toys, clothes, emotions, and love, it opens up kid-friendly conversations about gender roles and identity.

Pink is for Boys by Robb Pearlman | Breaks down gender stereotypes by celebrating every color for every child. With diverse characters and colorful illustrations, it encourages kids to express themselves freely and enjoy all the colors of the rainbow ~ no matter their gender.

Gorgeously Me! by Jonathan Van Ness | With empowering language and vibrant illustrations, thi rhyming celebration of self-love, confidence, and individuality encourages kids to embrace who they are and shine proudly just as they are.

---

I hope this book list is useful! Please consider subscribing for more bookish content.

Here’s to raising our young readers and future leaders!

Happy Reading,

Maya