Celebrating Black History Month with Kids: Simple Ways to Honor and Learn Together
It’s Black History Month! We take this month to honor the culture, contributions, achievements, and overall history of all African Americans. It’s never too early (or too late) to begin celebrating and educating your kids on all Black people from all periods of United States history.
African American artists, writers, politicians, activists, scientists, and many more have made countless contributions to create a better world for us all. We can take this time to help our kids understand why it’s important to focus on Black history, not just this month, but all year long. Here are some suggestions to get you started:
Conversations
Simply talk to your kids; help your kids understand the fight for justice and the hard truths. Discuss the history of unfair treatment towards Black people due to the color of their skin. Discussing the fight for justice encourages empathy. Whether you have babies, toddlers, preschoolers, school agers, or teens, there are age appropriate terms you can use to have these discussions or tools you can use to introduce them to the conversation.
Supporting Black-Owned Businesses
This is a very simple and straightforward way to make a difference, not just this month, but all year round. From beautifully designed dolls and books to thoughtfully made baby clothes and products, there are amazing Black-owned businesses with high quality products for you and your kids. Include your kids in the experience by letting them choose a product from the Black-owned business. Beyond your wallet, there are ways to show support that don’t cost you a penny such as viewing and/or following Black-owned business websites and social media channels. Even more simple, you can ask the business directly what they need from you to show support.
Connecting Black History to Areas of Interest
Think about your kids and their interests or hobbies. Are your kids into music? Sports? Art? Match their interest with Black contributors in that field. For example, if your kids love music, host a dance party featuring different styles of Black music throughout the ages. In the mood for food? There are many Black-owned southern inspired cuisine spots in the Milwaukee area.
Read Books About Black History and Culture
Read, read, and read some more! Build your home library with books celebrating Black culture and diverse characters. These books should be accessible and read to your kids not just this month, but year-round.
Make Arts and Crafts in Honor of Black History Month
There are so many arts and crafts you can make with your kids to celebrate Black History Month (hello Pinterest!). Participate in the activity with your kids; explain what you’re making/coloring and why you’re doing it, keep their artwork and save it over the years to put on your fridge every year.
No matter what you choose to do with your kids for Black History Month, it’s important to make any and all activities fun, memorable, and intentional. Let’s help our kids see the value in learning about Black history, and see that all Black is beautiful.
