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Teaching children about Black history opens their minds and hearts to others. By helping children understand both the struggles and triumphs of Black Americans, from slavery and segregation to ongoing civil rights movements, we equip them with cultural awareness and empathy. Black History Month provides a focused opportunity for caregivers - including foster and adoptive parents - to weave lessons into everyday life through books, events, and honest dialogue. However, it's crucial to continue teaching these lessons and Black history all year long. These essential conversations prepare children, regardless of their background, to develop a deep appreciation for Black Americans' contributions and build a more understanding and equitable future.
We hope you'll take a moment to review this list of suggestions and resources to help you teach kids about Black history.
Every child must learn Black history because it is American history. Help kids understand why Black history matters today and how it affects everyone in our country.
Don't limit what you teach your children to the subjects and information you have mastered. Lead by example and (re)discover aspects of history and the American story you may not know well. And, don't be afraid to be honest with your kids. It's okay to tell them you don't know all you wish you did about a subject, figure or event in history. Your authenticity can foster a deeper trust and connection.
Connect issues in the past to things we encounter today so kids can see that what we learn about in history is relevant now. As you do, be careful not to describe Black history only in "feel-good" language, or as a thing of the past. Kids need to be able to identify discrimination, bias, and inequities and be empowered to take action to avoid repeating injustices for which so many fought against.
Make sure your teaching goes far beyond superficial cultural traits based on stereotypes. It's okay to celebrate Black music, but dig deeper and look into the political and social contexts that give rise to musical forms like hip hop. Review your sources, too. Make sure you're not teaching kids about Black history in ways that promote a Eurocentric perspective or misrepresent historical figures and social movements.
Don't shy away from controversial, ambiguous, or unresolved issues. Share real-life experiences about racial realities in developmentally appropriate ways.
Incorporate Black history year-round, not just in February. Black History Month serves as a great reminder and a time to highlight Black history, but we can, and should, be teaching kids about all Americans and all parts of our history all year long.
The ideas listed above were adapted from material by Pat Russo of the Curriculum & Instruction Department at SUNY Oswego, also published by Learning for Justice.
Black Children and Black History: The Importance Of Teaching Our Kids the Complexity Of Us - MyBrownBaby.com
25 Must-Read Children’s Books for Black History Month - Family Education
Black History Month - National Geographic Kids
Black History Month - The King Center (The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change)
Black History Month Activities for Kids of All Ages - Boys & Girls Clubs of America
Black History Month Book List for Kids - Kids Co.
Black History Month Resource Guide for Educators and Families - Center for Racial Justice in Education
Celebrating Black Leaders - PBS Kids
How to Explain Black History Month To A Child - MamaKnowsItAll.com
To learn how you can help kids in foster care, visit pchas.org/fosteradoptevents and sign up for a Foster Care & Online Info Session or connect your Foster Care & Adoption Guide.
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