AUTHOR: Hena Khan
ILLUSTRATOR: Aaliya Jaleel
PUBLISHER: Lee & Low Books
"Under My Hijab" by Hena Khan and Aaliya Jaleel, is a valuable addition to early childhood literature, promoting inclusivity, empathy, and a celebration of our shared humanity.
The narrative unfolds through the eyes of a young girl as she discovers the various roles played by the women in her life, each donning the hijab in unique and personal ways. Through vibrant and engaging storytelling, Khan offers a glimpse into the multifaceted identities of these women, highlighting their achievements, dreams, and the love that binds them together.
The book serves as a brilliant conversation starter to discuss cultural diversity, religious practices, and the importance of respecting and appreciating differences. With its warm and inviting tone, "Under My Hijab" fosters an inclusive environment, promoting the idea that every individual's story is a piece of the beautiful mosaic that makes up our shared humanity.
Activities for Early Childhood:
Don a Hijab: Before reading the story, silently pick up and wrap a scarf around your head hijab style - perhaps secure with some hair clips. Generally this simple act will prompt some interesting questions and ensuing discussion. Some ideas for feeding into the discussion:
Do the children themselves have any clothes that make them feel a special way? i.e. sports clothing
Are there any clothes, jewellery or accessories that the children and/or their families wear that make them feel special? i.e. Indian sari/dhoti
Dress-Up Exploration: Set up a dress-up corner with scarves, shawls, and hats, allowing children to experiment with creating their own unique "hijab" styles. Encourage them to express their creativity while fostering an appreciation for diverse forms of self-expression.
Storytelling and Role-Playing: After reading the book, engage children in storytelling and role-playing activities. Encourage them to share stories about their families, traditions, and unique qualities. This not only enhances language skills but also promotes a sense of identity and belonging.
Collaborative Art Project: Create a collaborative art project where children draw or paint pictures of themselves and their families, incorporating elements that represent their cultural and familial identity. Display the artwork in the classroom to celebrate diversity.
Cultural Cuisine Exploration: Introduce children to diverse cuisines from around the world, particularly those associated with the cultures represented in the book. Explore simple recipes or invite parents to share traditional snacks, creating a sensory experience that connects food with culture.
Guest Speaker or Virtual Visit: Arrange for a guest speaker or a virtual visit from someone in the community who wears a hijab. This firsthand experience can provide children with an opportunity to ask questions, fostering understanding and respect for different cultural practices.
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