At Home Enrichment: Black History Month

by | Feb 25, 2024 | At-Home Enrichment

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February is Black History Month—a time to honor and celebrate all the achievements and contributions of Black people from all periods of U.S. history. Did you know that children are never too young to learn about empathy and how to notice and celebrate differences? Several studies suggest that children as young as six months begin to notice physical differences like skin color. You can support this learning by:

  • Offering books that center on diverse characters
  • Representing diversity through the toys and materials you provide
  • Inviting your child to talk about differences

Below, you will find our collection of book suggestions and learning experiences to help you celebrate Black history with your child this February and all year!

 

Learning Experiences

1. Listen to and discover music from different Black cultures. Follow this link to explore a list of BIPOC-representing musicians for children. #ConcertsForKids by the Soul Science Lab is another great resource designed to empower children to celebrate diversity.

2. Paint and explore self-portraits. Invite your child to use art materials to create a self-portrait or a portrait of a significant figure in Black history. Ask your child what they notice about their portraits. You might also consider sharing portraits done by black artists, including Kehinde Wiley and Amy Sherald’s portraits of President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama. 

3. Cook a traditional African American recipe. Choose a recipe that is suitable to make with your child and talk about how African American food has influenced the food we eat and our culture. Here is a list of 38 recipes to choose from!

4. Read books that include diverse representation and/or celebrate Black historical figures. You can also read books with your child that address matters of race(ism) and our own biases.

 

If you try this at home, let us know on Instagram @solbelearning. Be vibrant and keep thriving!

 

Be vibrant and keep thriving!

This article was last reviewed or updated on February 25, 2024.

About the author: Rebecca is the Director at SolBe Learning. Rebecca has worked in the field of early education for over six years, with a passion for supporting the optimal development of young children and families. Rebecca holds a B.A. in early childhood education and sociology as well as an M.A. and license in school counseling.

 

References

Wright, B. L.. (2020). Now read this! Books that promote race, identity, agency, and voice. Teaching Young Children, 14(1). https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/tyc/oct2020/now-read-this 


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