As parents of Black children, it’s essential to instill a sense of pride in their heritage and to teach them about the rich history and contributions of their ancestors. However, it can be difficult to know where to start or how to make the subject engaging for them. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 20 fun and interactive ways to introduce your Black children to their history and culture.

How many of these are you already doing? How many can you add to your arsenal?

1. Read books together that feature Black characters and stories.
2. Watch documentaries and movies that highlight the contributions and experiences of Black individuals and communities.
3. Visit historical sites and monuments that commemorate Black history, such as the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
4. Attend community events and festivals that celebrate Black culture, such as the annual African American Festival in Baltimore.
5. Cook and eat traditional Black foods together, such as fried chicken, collard greens, and sweet potatoes.
6. Listen to and learn about Black musicians, such as Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Beyoncé.
7. Study the Civil Rights Movement and discuss the importance of the fight for equality and justice.
8. Research and learn about Black inventors and scientists, such as George Washington Carver and Mae Jemison.
9. Study the Harlem Renaissance and discuss the impact of the cultural movement on literature, art, and music.
10. Discuss and learn about Black leaders, such as Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Nelson Mandela.
11. Learn about Black activists, such as Angela Davis and Fredrick Douglass.
12. Visit a Black-owned business in your community and learn about the challenges and successes of Black entrepreneurship.
13. Learn about Black contributions to the arts, such as the works of Maya Angelou and James Baldwin.
14. Learn about Black contributions to the military, such as the Tuskegee Airmen and the Buffalo Soldiers.
15. Use Black History Month as an opportunity to discuss and learn about the ongoing struggles for equality and justice in the Black community.
16. Learn about Black historical figures, such as Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth
17. Plan a visit to a Black cultural center or museum
18. Study Black authors and poets and discuss the themes and messages in their works.
19. Create a family tree and trace your own ancestry and learn about the history and culture of your ancestors.

Our Black History Flashcards were created as a way for anyone, young or old, to easily engage and learn about our great and storied past. Check our volume 1 here.

By incorporating these activities into your daily routine, you can help your Black children develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for their heritage. It is important to empower them with knowledge about their history and culture, and to acknowledge the contributions made by their ancestors throughout history. Black history is their history and it is essential for Black children to learn about it in order to understand and respect their own identity. It is also important to remember that learning about Black history is not limited to a single month, it is an ongoing process and a way to build a sense of belonging and pride in the Black community.