Haitian-born actress, Garcelle Beauvais, was the only black girl in her class when she arrived in Massachusetts as a child. Today, she raises three children of her own, including bi-racial twin boys. Her experiences then and now encouraged her to began a children’s book series entitled “I Am.”

The first book of the series, “I Am Mixed” focuses on brother and sister, Jay and Nia, as they explore and share their thoughts on being of mixed ethnicities. Though some parents may find the topic challenging to discuss, Beauvais began the conversation of diversity and race with her sons at age 2 1/2.

I didn’t want them to be asked why is your mommy brown and daddy white and not have them understand it themselves. I wanted them to know that they’re the best parts of us put together. What I wanted most of all is for them to be proud of who they are and celebrate themselves.

While “I Am Mixed” focuses on Beauvais’ research regarding identity issues affecting today’s children, future installments will include topics such as divorce and adoption. Co-authored by Garcelle and Stranger Comic’s president, Sebastian Jones, the books are illustrated by artist James C. Webster.

“It was an opportunity to help my children understand what makes them special, to know their heritage and learn self-acceptance. I really hope it will start conversations for other families as well,” she told Elizabeth Street.

“I Am Mixed” is available on August 7 in hardback and on Amazon. Read more about the series on Lifetime Network’s Celebrity Moms.

BMWK– How did/will you begin the discussion of diversity with your children?