Observed in February every year in the United States, Black History Month is a dedicated time to recognize and honor the achievements of African Americans throughout history. It's also an opportunity to teach children about important events and figures that have shaped our nation. Here are some ideas for celebrating Black History Month with kids.
1. Read books
Introduce kids to the stories and experiences of African Americans by reading books written by Black authors or about Black history. This can include picture books for younger kids, biographies for older kids, and works from a variety of genres across fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.
Tip: Visit your local library for a curated selection of Black History Month reads. Some great examples of Black History Month books for kids include:
"Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History" by Vashti Harrison, a collection of 40 one-page biographies featuring Black women who made an impact in their fields.
"Discovering Black America" by Linda Tarrant-Reid: This book takes you on a journey through over 400 years of African American history. From the first Africans in the New World, through slavery, two World Wars, the Civil Rights movement, all the way to the election of Barack Obama, it's a dynamic read that brings to life many important yet often overlooked stories.
"Famous Firsts of Black Americans" by Sybil Hanco*ck: This fascinating read chronicles the lives of notable Black men and women who helped shape America. With profiles ranging from George Washington Carver to Jackie Robinson, it highlights the significant contributions of these trailblazers.
"Solomon Northup's Twelve Years a Slave: 1841–1853" by Sue Eakin: This is an emotional account of Northup’s experience as a free man turned slave and then a free man once again. It offers a personal perspective on the harsh reality of slavery and a poignant read for young readers.
"The President Sang Amazing Grace" by Zoe Mulford: Inspired by President Barack Obama's heartfelt eulogy and rendition of "Amazing Grace" at the funeral of Reverend Clementa Pinckney, this book captures one of the most powerful moments of his presidency. It's an illustrative read that shines a light on the state of race relations and gun violence in America.
"The Book of Awesome Black Americans" by Monique L. Jones: Packed with astonishing stories of bravery, grit, and joy, this book celebrates Black Americans who have made significant contributions to American culture and history. It's a great read for young minds aged 12+ looking to learn about the diverse heroes of Black history.
2. Watch films and documentaries
Movies and documentaries can provide a valuable, alternative learning experience for kids. From historical dramas to biopics, many great films examine important events and figures in Black history and the Black experience in America, including numerous age-appropriate documentaries that explore different aspects of African American culture and history.
Tip: Invite friends over for a movie night and watch a film together. Some great examples of Black History Month films for kids include:
"Akeelah and the Bee"
"The Color of Friendship"
"March On!: The Day My Brother Martin Changed the World"
"Hidden Figures" showcases the untold story of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson - brilliant African-American women working at NASA who served as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit.
"Selma" chronicles Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s campaign to secure equal voting rights with an epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, in 1965.
"Ruby Bridges" is the inspiring true story of the first African American child to integrate an all-white Southern elementary school.
"Remember the Titans" is a film about a newly appointed African-American coach and his high school team during their first season as a racially integrated unit.
"42" tells the story of Jackie Robinson and his history-making signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers under the guidance of team executive Branch Rickey.
3. Visit museums and cultural sites
Take your child to visit local museums, historical sites, or cultural centers that honor African American history. Tip: Many museums offer discounted admission or special events during Black History Month. Some notable museums and cultural sites that celebrate African American history include:
National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington D.C.
The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center in Chicago
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute in Alabama
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Ohio
The International Civil Rights Center & Museum in North Carolina
4. Attend community events
Many communities host special events during Black History Month, such as concerts, performances, lectures, and workshops. These can be valuable opportunities for kids to learn about African American culture and history while also engaging with their local community. Check your local newspaper or community calendar for upcoming events.
5. Participate in activities and crafts
Get creative with your child while educating them through Black History Month-inspired activities and crafts. Many museums sponsor family activity days where you can create themed works together. You can also look to local libraries, schools, community centers, and creative sites like Pinterest. Some common activities include:
Making a "Dream Book" showcasing their dreams for the future inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous speech
Creating a collage of activism and progress using magazine cut-outs of influential African American figures
Creating a "Freedom Quilt" inspired by the Underground Railroad
Making a "Great Minds" collage featuring influential Black figures
Painting pr drawing portraits of famous African American leaders or artists along with mini-biographies of their achievements and impacts
Learning about and creating Black- and African-originating textiles and other arts, such as kente cloth patterns, a traditional fabric from Ghana
6. Have meaningful conversations
Talking to kids about race and diversity is an important part of American culture, education, and civil and human rights at any time. Black History Month is a great opportunity to dive deeper into conversations that may already be happening at school and in the community. You can have meaningful, age-appropriate conversations about historical events, current issues, and the importance of inclusivity and equality. Use this as a chance to listen to your child's thoughts and questions.
Common and potential topics
The significance of Black Lives Matter and how it relates to civil rights movements in history
The impacts of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism on African American communities and how those impacts still manifest today
How diverse cultures influence our society, including music, art, food, fashion, and more
Black culture in different parts of the world
The importance of acknowledging and respecting cultural and historical differences
Allyship and what it means to be an ally for and in the Black community
Honoring Black History Month with our kids helps educate them and enrich their understanding of diversity and inclusion. As parents, our conscientious efforts in these areas can help foster environments of learning and shape a better-informed, more empathetic generation.
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