Sharing black history with kids

Written By Jessica Schwartz

Black History Month is a meaningful opportunity to explore the rich contributions, achievements, and experiences of Black Americans throughout history. As parents and caregivers, we have the chance to help our children develop a deeper understanding of the past while celebrating the vibrant cultures and ongoing legacies that shape our world today. Whether you're looking for age-appropriate books, engaging activities, or conversations starters, here are some resources to help you share Black History with your children in meaningful and accessible ways.

Books for Every Age

Picture Books (Ages 3-7)

  • The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander - A powerful, poetic tribute to Black history and achievement

  • Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly (Young Readers' Edition) - The story of pioneering Black women mathematicians at NASA

  • Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed - Inspired by the childhood of astronaut Mae Jemison

  • Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry - A celebration of Black hair and family love

  • Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison - Profiles of 40 inspiring Black women

Chapter Books (Ages 8-12)

  • Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson - A lyrical memoir in verse

  • The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis - Historical fiction about the Civil Rights era

  • Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes - A powerful story addressing racism and police violence

  • March trilogy by John Lewis and Andrew Aydin - A graphic novel memoir of the Civil Rights Movement

Young Adult (Ages 13+)

  • The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas - Contemporary fiction addressing activism and identity

  • Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi - A remix of history for young people

  • Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates - A profound letter about being Black in America

Museums and Virtual Experiences

In-Person Museums

  • National Museum of African American History and Culture (Washington, D.C.)

  • The Legacy Museum and National Memorial for Peace and Justice (Montgomery, AL)

  • Studio Museum in Harlem (New York, NY)

  • National Civil Rights Museum (Memphis, TN)

  • Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History (Detroit, MI)

Virtual Tours and Resources

  • The Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture offers extensive online collections and virtual tours

  • Google Arts & Culture features curated Black history collections and street art exhibitions

  • The Library of Congress has digitized materials on civil rights, slavery, and Black culture

Documentaries and Films

For Younger Children

  • Our Friend, Martin - An animated film introducing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

  • Ruby Bridges - The story of the first Black child to integrate an all-white elementary school

  • Akeelah and the Bee - An inspiring story about a young girl from South Los Angeles

For Tweens and Teens

  • Selma - The story of the 1965 voting rights marches

  • Hidden Figures - The feature film about Black women mathematicians at NASA

  • 13th by Ava DuVernay - A documentary exploring mass incarceration (for mature teens)

Hands-On Activities

Creative Projects

  • Create a timeline of important moments in Black history

  • Research and present on a Black historical figure your child admires

  • Cook traditional soul food or dishes from the African diaspora together

  • Listen to music from different eras - jazz, blues, gospel, hip-hop - and discuss their cultural significance

  • Attend local Black History Month events, performances, or cultural festivals

Conversation Starters

  • What does it mean to be a changemaker? Who are some Black changemakers you've learned about?

  • How have Black inventors, scientists, and artists changed the world we live in?

  • What can we learn from the courage of people who fought for civil rights?

Online Resources for Parents

Making It Meaningful Year-Round

While Black History Month is an important time for focused learning, it's equally important to integrate Black history and culture into everyday life throughout the year. Consider diversifying your home library, supporting Black-owned businesses, attending cultural events, and continuing conversations about equity, justice, and the ongoing work toward equality.

By exploring Black history together, we help our children understand that history isn't just something that happened in the past - it's being made every day by people who stand up for justice, create beautiful art, innovate in science and technology, and contribute to their communities in countless ways.

What resources have worked well for your family? The journey of learning is ongoing, and every conversation is an opportunity to grow together.

Share this post with other parents who want to make Black History Month meaningful for their families. What will you explore together this month?

Jessica Schwartz https://1014creative.com
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