February is Black History Month. We will see the evidence everywhere: passionate social media posts, worksheets in our kids’ backpacks, and branded merchandise from large companies hoping to appear socially conscious. And as much as we want to deny it, it’s easy to become complacent and let Black History Month pass by without much thought or engagement. But we are raising kids who we hope to be compassionate leaders in a diverse world. We want them to recognize and call out injustice. We want them to be anti-racist. And in order to do that, we must teach them history- real history, not the white-washed version in so many school curriculums. So much of Black history and Black achievements are never taught in schools, and it’s up to us as mothers to teach this history to our kids.
This year, the theme of Black History Month is Black Resistance. Since the beginning of our country’s history, African American’s have been resisting the injustices they have faced, including slavery and the absence of basic civil and human rights. This resistance continues today, with movements like Black Lives Matter educating the public on the continued fight for equality Black people face in America.
Black History Month presents the perfect opportunity to talk to our kids about resistance, and how how and why African Americans have resisted injustice and continue to do so. We can talk to them about how they too can resist racist attitudes and actions when they see them. Thankfully there are a plethora of great resources available to help.
Black History Month Resources for White Moms
How White People Can Celebrate Black History Month
https://bostonmoms.com/motherhood/honoring-black-history-month-as-a-white-mom/
Talking to Our Kids about Racism
We know talking to our kids about race and racism is important, but many of us feel ill-equipped and awkward having these conversations. Here are a few helpful posts to empower moms in talking to their children about these important topics.
Racism Still Exists in The Classroom
Equipping Parents to Discuss Racism With Their Children
Love Lessons :: Words to Our Children About Race and Racism
Anti-racism: A Maternal Call To Action
Books to Read During Black History Month
Books are always one of the best ways to educate and inform us on any topic. There are a plethora of books available, both fiction and nonfiction, that both kids and adults can read during Black History Month. The best way to develop understanding and empathy is to share stories, and books are the greatest avenue to do that.
Favorite Black History Month Books for Children and Families
Black History Month: Books for Every Bookshelf
Other Resources for Moms and Kids
PBS Kids has many age-appropriate Black History Month resources for kids, including a list of questions to get the conversation started in your home.
Parents has a great article on How to Celebrate Black History Month with Kids which includes tips from educators, fun activities, and volunteer opportunities.
Scholastic offers their picks for Remarkable Books for Black History Month.
Moms, challenge yourself this year to not let February pass without engaging your family with Black History Month and learning about Black resistance. There is so much history to learn and rich resources available to help.
