Celebrating Black History Month Resources with Young Minds

“

Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”

~ Harriet Tubman

February marks Black History Month, a meaningful opportunity to honor the achievements, history, and contributions of Black Americans while teaching children about inclusion and diversity. For parents, this month provides a chance to foster important conversations and learning experiences that will guide children toward empathy and understanding. Below are practical resources and tips to help families engage with the themes of Black History Month in meaningful ways.

Interactive Resources for Parents and Kids

1. PBS Parents: Black History Month
   This resource includes age-appropriate videos, articles, and activities designed to help children understand Black history and the importance of diversity. Topics range from famous Black leaders to ways children can celebrate inclusion in their communities.

2. National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC)
   The NMAAHC offers virtual exhibits, learning kits, and activities for children and families to explore African American history and culture.

3. Scholastic Black History Month Resources
   Scholastic provides books, lesson plans, and activities for children of all ages to learn about key figures and moments in Black history.

4. Learning for Justice
   Formerly known as Teaching Tolerance, this site offers resources to teach children about diversity, equity, and inclusion in ways that foster understanding and respect.

5. Common Sense Media
   Discover a curated list of books, movies, and apps focused on diversity and inclusion that are suitable for children of various age groups.

6. Read Aloud: Stories Celebrating Black Voices
   Explore read-aloud channels on YouTube that highlight stories by Black authors and celebrate African American heritage. Titles like Hair Love by Matthew Cherry are particularly impactful for young readers.

Books to Celebrate Diversity and Black History

Younger Children:

• Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’o

• We Are Free, You and Me by Colin Kaepernick and Nessa Diab

• Timid by Jonathan Todd

• All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold

Older Children:

• Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly

• The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo

• The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander

• The Hate You Give by Angie Thomas

Activities to Engage Children

• Create a Family Tree of Influential Figures: Help your child research inspiring Black leaders and create a "family tree" of role models who have made a difference.

• Diversity Collage: Encourage your child to make a collage representing the beauty of diversity by using images and words that celebrate inclusion.

Starting Conversations with Children

1. Be Honest and Open: Use simple language appropriate to your child’s age and answer their questions thoughtfully.

2. Encourage Empathy: Share stories that foster understanding of other people’s experiences and challenges.

3. Celebrate Differences: Emphasize that our differences make us stronger and more beautiful as a community.

Conclusion

Black History Month is an important time for families to learn, celebrate, and grow together. By utilizing these resources and engaging in meaningful conversations, parents can help children develop a deep respect for diversity and a lifelong commitment to inclusion. Visit the resources above and join us in fostering a brighter, inclusive future for all. At Juliette’s House, we believe in fostering a world where every child feels valued and respected. Teaching inclusion and diversity plays a critical role in shaping such a future.