In Italy, same-sex families are now a prominent reality despite the lack of legal and social recognition. Schools and families, for example, are still embarrassed and unprepared when talking about same-sex families. Since teachers, educators, and parents are usually not informed about homo-affective families and non-traditional family dynamics, this study suggests using books, and specifically picture books, as an educational tool that may help children in considering new points of view and reflecting upon unfamiliar and sometimes distant realities. In particular, the article highlights that picture books may not just promote diversity and foster inclusion, but that they also might deconstruct stereotyped and fixed gender roles—specifically, parental roles—that have not been modified for a long time. Parental models are highly influential and fundamental in the construction of children’s gender identity and, therefore, of their personal ambitions. As a consequence, it is necessary to promote high-quality literature for children dealing with same-sex families and innovative gender roles. After an overview of the topic, this paper will examine a selection of specific picture books published in Italy on same-sex family structures and dynamics.
Errata corrige: a blank page was erroneously included in the article. It was eliminated.