The Importance of Black History Month and How to Celebrate With Kids
February marks the beginning of Black History Month. A month to celebrate the contributions and accomplishments African-Americans have made throughout American History. America has come a long way since Black History Month was officially recognized in 1976. However, our work as a country is not complete and we must continuously work towards a better, more inclusive future.
The Importance of Black History Month
Black History Month is just as important today as ever before because it is a crucial part of American History as a whole. It aims to preserve the memory of the past, struggles and successes, and to empower members of this culture to embrace their heritage and continue to make a positive impact.
Teaching children about Black History Month and the influential African-American figures in American History teaches them to be thoughtful and informed members of society, and helps move our society forward in a positive way.
It’s important to have these conversations with our children about diversity and African-American History not only in February, but throughout the year! Not sure how to teach African-American History in a kid-friendly way? Here are some fun and educational ways to celebrate Black History Month with the little ones.
How to Celebrate Black History With Kids
1. Visit a Museum Celebrating Black History
Visiting a museum that highlights and educates African-Amercian history is a great way to get kids interested in learning about Black History Month. If your local museum isn’t open due to the pandemic, there are virtual museum tours and events you can view from your home. Click here to find a Black History Museum near you!
2. Read About African-American History
Children’s books about African-American History are a fun and educational way to introduce important topics and spark conversation with your little one. Below are some literature to about African-American History you can read with your child:
- Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr by Doreen Rappaport
- Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History and Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History
- The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles
- Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed
- Dream Big, Little on by Vashti Harrison
- I Am Jackie Robinson by Brad Meltzer
3. Listen to Music from Influential African-American Musicians
Black History Month is a great time to start learning about Black culture. Music has always been a crucial part of the culture from gospel and spiritual hymns all the way to jazz. The children’s gospel song “This Little Light of Mine”, which was an anthem for the Black community during the Civil Rights Movement, is a great song to teach children. Also, jazz musicians such as John Coltrane, Duke Ellington, and Miles Davis are one of the greatest African-American musicians that your littles ones would love!
Everyone loves a good movie! Introducing African-American history and culture to children through movies is a great combination of entertaining and educational. Movies such as Soul, The Wiz, Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella, and the Color of Friendship are all perfect examples of important lessons children can learn such as acceptance, compassion, diversity, and love.
Photo: @maljackphotography feat. our Texas wildblossom lives long sleeve leo
5. Attend Black History Month events in your community
Many public libraries and playhouses offer classes, story time readings or other activities for children to learn about Black History. You could even find these events being hosted virtually. Seek out local kid-friendly events online for Black History Month activities.
It’s important that we continue to learn about African-American History and culture and to consistently promote diversity in the multicultural society that we live in today. We work to show diversity in our brand and uplift African-American mothers and daughters in our community! To see our African-American History spotlight, check out our Instagram and Facebook page for our weekly highlights!
xoxo
Thank you for sharing not only the article but the ideas for others to do during the month.
Great examples to read or watch , activities to do as a Family.
I was surprised but shouldn’t be in regard to the support of so many!
Thank you,
This is a beautiful post and blog! Such great pictures in this post! They really grabbed my attention. Thank you for sharing such inspirational words we all should be sharing with the world.
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