A Rainbow For Reading: A Mixed-Methods Exploratory Study On Drag Queen Reading Programs

This exploratory mixed-methods study sought to understand some of the potential psychoeducational benefits of drag queen reading programs. A short mixed-methods survey was employed that asked caregivers about their experiences with drag queen reading programs. Since this is a topic with little prior research, ethnographic observations of three different drag queen reading programs were also completed to gain more knowledge of the public realm of a modality that challenges cisheteronormativity of gender expression. Over 86% of the respondents enjoyed the program and would recommend it to a friend. A majority of respondents (72%) shared that their children enjoyed the programming, and a little more than half (65%) felt like it was age appropriate. The qualitative results suggest that storytimes may be more effective if they cater to a specific developmental range (such as for all ages, toddlers and infants, and school-aged children). The qualitative and ethnographic results highlighted themes such as increased knowledge around gender expression and gender identity and teaching families more about acceptance and difference.