The Importance of Representation in Kids’ Media: Why Every Kid Needs a Rainbow

Picture this: My daughter, clutching a book at bedtime, pauses mid-page and asks, “Daddy, do princesses ever have two dads?” Cue the heart squeeze. As a gay dad, moments like these are why representation in kids’ media isn’t just important—it’s absolutely essential.

Growing up, I don’t remember seeing families like mine in books, TV shows, or on toy shelves. Fast forward to today, and while progress has been made, we’re still not where we need to be. And some would say we're in danger of moving backward. Visibility matters because it validates. It teaches kids that families come in all shapes and colors, and that their experiences are not just “normal” but something to be celebrated.

So let’s talk about why LGBTQ+ representation in kids’ media is a game-changer—for every kid, not just the ones in rainbow-colored households.

Why Representation Matters: A Dad’s Perspective

Kids are like little sponges (except, you know, cuter and way more prone to sticky hands). They absorb everything they see, hear, and experience. When they don’t see diversity reflected in their media, they’re essentially being told, This is what the world looks like, and anything different? Doesn’t belong.

For LGBTQ+ families, this lack of representation can make our kids feel invisible. But it’s not just about them—it’s about their friends, classmates, and future coworkers, too. Media shapes how kids understand the world, so when they see diverse families and identities represented, they grow up more empathetic and accepting.

And let’s be real: it’s about time we retired the “one-mom-one-dad nuclear family” monopoly on bedtime stories.

Books: Where Stories Begin

Books are often a child’s first window into the world—or mirror, if they’re lucky enough to see themselves in the pages. But finding LGBTQ+ representation in children’s literature can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

When we finally stumbled upon a picture book featuring two dads, my daughter lit up like she’d discovered the secret to unlimited snack time. She asked if we could read it again and again, and each time, I could see her feeling a little more seen.

Books like Heather Has Two Mommies or And Tango Makes Three have paved the way, but there’s so much room for growth. We need more stories with LGBTQ+ protagonists that don’t just focus on their identity—because sometimes a dragon-slaying adventure with two dads in the background is exactly what the world needs.

TV: A Screenful of Possibilities

Let’s talk about TV, a.k.a. the third parent in most households. We keep Q away from screens as much as we can, but we're all human and it some times happens. Representation on the screen has come a long way, but there’s still a gap when it comes to LGBTQ+ families in children’s programming. 

Shows like Blue’s Clues & You! and Arthur have made strides by introducing queer characters and families, and let me tell you, when we saw a pride parade on Blue’s Clues, our living room turned into a full-on celebration. (There may or may not have been glitter involved.)

But imagine if LGBTQ+ representation weren’t just a “special episode” moment. Imagine if it were woven into the fabric of storytelling, the same way we see mom-and-dad families represented every day. Normalizing diversity in kids’ programming helps create a world where no one has to explain their family dynamic—because it’s already understood.

Toys: Representation on the Playroom Floor

Ah, toys. The tiny plastic ambassadors of childhood. If you’ve ever tried to find a playset that represents your family, you know the struggle is real. Most dollhouses come with a standard mom, dad, and two kids. Swap out one of those parents for a second dad? You’re officially “breaking the set.” Don't even get us started with the racial representation.

Representation in toys isn’t just about seeing yourself; it’s about shaping how kids play and imagine. Inclusive toys, like the recent addition of LGBTQ+ Barbie dolls or customizable family sets, teach kids that love is love, and families can look however they want.

My daughter’s favorite game? Swapping out the mom in her dollhouse for another dad and then asking me which one is “going to cook dinner tonight.” Representation and sass? Check. With two dads, she's in no short supply of sass.

How Pride & Parenting Champions Visibility

At Pride & Parenting, we believe every family deserves to be celebrated—and that includes the media we consume and the products we create. Our All Families collection is a love letter to the beautiful diversity of LGBTQ+ households. When your kids see you rocking a shirt that proudly says, “My Family is Fabulous,” it sends a powerful message: You belong. We belong (hint, hint... coming this spring!).

We’re also passionate about amplifying the voices of creators who are championing LGBTQ+ visibility. That’s why our blog will start to feature book recommendations, TV show highlights, and toy suggestions that reflect the world as it truly is—vibrant, diverse, and queer.

How You Can Make a Difference

Representation starts with demand. When we, as parents, educators, and allies, support diverse media, we’re sending a clear message: This is what we want for our kids. Here’s how you can help:

1. Buy Inclusive Media: Seek out books, shows, and toys that reflect the diversity of the world we live in. Support LGBTQ+ authors, creators, and brands. Duh, like us.

2. Talk About It: Normalize conversations about representation. If a show features a family with two moms, point it out and celebrate it with your kids.

3. Advocate for Change: Reach out to publishers, networks, and toy companies to ask for more representation. Change happens when we demand it.

4. Show Your Pride: Wear it loud and proud. Our apparel isn’t just fashion—it’s a statement of love, visibility, and inclusion.

Looking Ahead: A More Inclusive Future

As a gay dad, my hope for the future is that my daughter won’t have to look hard to see herself and her family represented. I want her to grow up in a world where diversity isn’t just celebrated during Pride Month but is a given in every aspect of life.

We’re not there yet, but every book, show, and toy that includes LGBTQ+ representation is a step in the right direction. And as we champion visibility, we’re not just making the world better for our kids—we’re making it better for everyone.

So here’s to the stories that reflect all of us, the characters that inspire us, and the toys that let our kids imagine a world where anything is possible. Representation matters—and together, we’re making it happen.

Looking for ways to celebrate your family’s pride? Check out the All Families collection at Pride & Parenting Apparel and wear your story with pride. Let’s champion visibility together.