Black History Month Activities for Kids and Elementary Students - Educators Technology (2024)

Black History Month Activities for Kids and Elementary Students - Educators Technology (1)

As February rolls around, it’s a fantastic time to immerse ourselves and our young learners in the rich mosaic of African American history and culture. Black History Month is not just a period to reflect on the past but also an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black Americans throughout history.

Engaging kids in Black History Month activities allows us to open their minds to the stories, struggles, and successes of African Americans, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of diversity and resilience.

Whether you’re a teacher looking for classroom ideas or a parent seeking meaningful ways to engage your child at home, this guide is packed with unique and educational activities designed to make learning about Black history engaging, informative, and fun for kids and elementary students.

Black History Month Activities for Kids

Here are some practical ideas to make Black History Month both educational and memorable for kids and elementary students.

1. Introduce Kids to the Inventor of the Traffic Light

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Start by telling the story of Garrett Morgan, an African American inventor who created the three-position traffic signal. Use a specifically designed activity pack that includes coloring pages of his invention, reading comprehension worksheets detailing his life and work, and perhaps a fun experiment simulating his invention using simple materials like colored paper and flashlights. This hands-on approach helps kids understand the importance of his invention in everyday life.

2. Create Educational Visuals Celebrating Black History Month

Encourage students to create their own posters or digital presentations celebrating significant Black figures in history using graphic design tools like Canva or Adobe Spark. They could focus on a variety of areas such as science, art, literature, or social justice. This activity allows children to express their creativity while learning about the contributions of Black individuals throughout history.

3. Play Black History Month Trivia

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Organize a trivia game with questions about famous Black inventors, scientists, artists, and leaders. This can be a fun way for kids to learn about historical figures and facts that they might not be familiar with. Consider using a digital quiz tool like Kahoot! to make it interactive and competitive, encouraging children to learn more in preparation for the game.

4. Read Black History Month Stories

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Select a range of stories and books that celebrate Black history and culture. After reading, engage the kids in discussions about the themes, characters, and historical contexts of the stories. This can help develop their empathy and understanding of different perspectives and experiences.

5. Discuss Black History Figures

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Dedicate time each day or week to learn about a different Black explorer, scientist, leader, or changemaker. Use a variety of resources like videos, biographies, and interactive websites to bring these figures to life. Discuss their achievements, the obstacles they faced, and how they have influenced the world. Highlighting their contributions on a global scale can provide a broader perspective on their impact.

6. Decorate Class

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Involve students in decorating the classroom with printables, posters, and their own artwork inspired by Black History Month. This can include portraits of notable figures, quotes, and significant symbols. Hands-on activities like crafting decorations or creating a bulletin board display can make the learning environment more inclusive and inspiring.

7. Read Picture Books

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A popular picture book to use with kids is Freedom in Congo Square by Carole Boston Weatherford. Use this picture book as a starting point to explore the history of slavery and the resilience of enslaved Africans in America. Reading and discussing the book can open up conversations about the importance of freedom and the ways in which enslaved people preserved their culture and supported each other.

8. Read Stories with Black Girls as Protagonists

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Direct students to the “1000 Black Girl Books” resource guide and select books to read together. This initiative, which highlights stories with Black girls as the main characters, is a fantastic way to introduce diverse voices and experiences into your reading list. Discussing these stories can help students understand different perspectives and the power of representation in literature.

9. African American Music Appreciation

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Dive into the rich history of African American music by exploring genres like jazz, blues, gospel, hip-hop, and R&B. Create a playlist of iconic songs from different eras, and organize a listening party. Discuss the origins of each genre and its cultural significance. Incorporate dance by teaching children steps from African or African American dances, or have them create their own choreography inspired by the music. This activity celebrates the profound impact of African American artists on the music world and encourages kids to express themselves through movement and rhythm.

10. Create a Mural

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Invite students to work together on a large mural that depicts themes of freedom, unity, and the achievements of Black Americans throughout history. This could involve painting figures who have made significant contributions to society, symbols of the civil rights movement, or scenes that reflect the students’ understanding of Black History Month. This project not only fosters teamwork and creativity but also serves as a visual reminder of the lessons learned during the month.

11. Discover African American Cuisine

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Host a day where students can explore African American culinary traditions, which are rich with history and flavor. Share stories about the origins of dishes like soul food, Creole cuisine, and traditional African meals. If possible, organize a potluck or cooking demonstration where children can taste and learn to make simple recipes. This activity offers a delicious way to connect with history and understand the cultural significance of food.

12. Learn about African American Scientists and Inventors

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Encourage students to research African American scientists and inventors whose work has changed the world. This can be done through a digital scavenger hunt or an interactive presentation using tools like PowerPoint or Google Slides. Students could focus on figures like Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space, or Lonnie Johnson, inventor of the Super Soaker. This project highlights the contributions of Black individuals in the fields of science and technology, inspiring students to explore their own interests in these areas.

13. Share Family Stories

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Invite students to learn about their own families’ histories and any connections to Black history. They can interview family members, write down stories, or bring in photos and artifacts that represent their heritage. Sharing these stories in class can foster a sense of community and personal connection to history. It’s a powerful way to show that history is not just about big names and dates but also about the experiences and contributions of ordinary people.

Final thoughts

Embracing Black History Month with kids through a variety of activities is a celebration of culture, innovation, and strength. From exploring the inventions of Garrett Morgan to dancing to the rhythms of African American music, each activity offers a window into the contributions and achievements of Black Americans.

By integrating these Black History Month activities for kids into our teaching or parenting, we not only honor the past but also inspire the next generation to appreciate diversity and aspire to greatness. Let’s make this Black History Month a transformative time for our children, filled with learning, creativity, and discovery, ensuring they carry forward the lessons of resilience, unity, and respect throughout their lives.

Black History Month Activities for Kids and Elementary Students - Educators Technology (2024)

FAQs

Black History Month Activities for Kids and Elementary Students - Educators Technology? ›

Transform Your Classroom into a Black History Museum. Bring the museum into your classroom with this Black History Month activity. Ask students to research notable Black figures or key events in Black history. Students will then create posters based on their research.

What kind of activities can be done in school to celebrate Black History Month? ›

Transform Your Classroom into a Black History Museum. Bring the museum into your classroom with this Black History Month activity. Ask students to research notable Black figures or key events in Black history. Students will then create posters based on their research.

How to introduce Black History Month to elementary students? ›

If you're just beginning to introduce kids to the concept of Black History Month, start at the beginning by discussing what the month honors, how it started and why it is important. National Geographic Kids and PBS Kids both offer kid-friendly walk throughs.

How teachers can celebrate Black History Month? ›

Guidelines for teaching during Black History Month
  • Follow the do's and dont's.
  • Always promote diversity in your classroom.
  • Remind students that Black history is American history.
  • Leverage Black voices as much as you can (use relevant media, invite guest speakers etc.)
Jan 26, 2021

How do you explain Black history to elementary students? ›

Talk about the positives! Remember–Black History is more than just hardship! Talk about the amazing contributions they have made to society as a whole. A great place to start is to teach your kids about the impact of Black music, Black scientists and inventors, activists, and any other important cultural contributions.

How do you explain Black History Month to a 5 year old? ›

Teach children that the purpose of Black History Month is to remember and celebrate. Black History Month exists as a time we set aside to acknowledge what African Americans accomplished in the face of severe injustice and celebrate those achievements.

How do you celebrate Black History Month at work virtually? ›

13 Black History Month Ideas for a Virtual Workplace
  1. What is Black History Month?
  2. Black History Month Trivia Game.
  3. DEI consultations and/or workshops.
  4. Support Black-owned businesses.
  5. Donate to causes that help the Black community.
  6. Celebrate the culture.
  7. Go on a virtual tour.
  8. Spread the word.
Jan 20, 2023

What are three best things about Black History Month? ›

Here are five important things to know about this meaningful commemoration:
  • It Started as a Week.
  • Carter Woodson: The Father of Black History.
  • February Was Chosen for a Reason.
  • A Week Becomes a Month.
  • Honoring African-American Men and Women.
Feb 18, 2019

What is the 2024 Black History Month theme? ›

The national theme for Black History Month 2024 is “African Americans and the Arts.” Black History Month 2024 is a time to recognize and highlight the achievements of Black artists and creators, and the role they played in U.S. history and in shaping our country today.

Why is it important to celebrate Black History Month for kids? ›

Black History Month, celebrated February of every year, is a fantastic opportunity to teach children about world history, social studies, and modern politics. Specifically, the month looks to highlight African American achievements and recognize the central role African Americans have played in U.S. history.

Do schools celebrate Black History Month? ›

Black History Month is as important as ever as Black History Month is not only celebrated in schools but also throughout community spaces.

Why should schools celebrate Black History Month? ›

Black History Month encourages us to learn about the true history of America and strive for a better world. During February, we study the past and look forward to a future of social equity for all.

Should we celebrate Black History Month in schools? ›

Black History Month is a special time to reflect on the contributions and achievements of Black leaders, past and present, to inspire future contributions, innovation, and achievement. All students benefit from learning Black history.

What is one way to celebrate Black History Month? ›

1. Read books about Black history and culture: Introduce children to books that celebrate Black people and their contributions to history and culture. Books like "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly, "The Story of Ruby Bridges" by Robert Coles, and "I Am Enough" by Grace Byers are great options.

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