UPDATED 2024. Exploring Black history through creative activities is a fantastic way to inspire and educate kids of all ages. From the vibrant rhythms of African drumming to the profound words of iconic leaders, Black history is rich with stories, struggles, and triumphs that can spark curiosity and empathy in young minds. That’s why we’ve put together 50 meaningful and engaging activities that are perfect for kids, from toddlers to tweens. These activities are not just about learning; they’re about experiencing, understanding, and celebrating the diverse tapestry of Black history and culture.
Each activity is thoughtfully designed to be both educational and enjoyable, ensuring that kids are not just passively receiving information but actively participating in their own learning journey. Whether it’s crafting art inspired by African patterns, exploring the scientific discoveries of Black inventors, or stepping into the shoes of historical figures through role-play, these activities cater to a wide range of interests and learning styles. They’re perfect for parents, teachers, or anyone looking to introduce children to the profound contributions and enduring legacy of Black individuals throughout history. So, get ready to dive into a world of discovery and inspiration as we explore these 50 meaningful and fun Black History activities for kids!
What is Black History Month?
Black History Month is an annual celebration of accomplishments by Americans, Canadians and British people of African decent. It is also an opportunity to acknowledge their contributions in the history of Canada, United States and the UK.
Black History Month was first started in the United States where it is also known as African American History Month. Its origins started with “Negro History Week,” first coined by historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans. These historians started this week in 1915, in response to the lack of information on the accomplishments of Black people available to the public.
Black History Month became official in 1976 and since then every president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries such as Canada and the United Kingdom, have also officially designated February and October respectively as a month to celebrating Black history. February was recognized in Canada in 1995 and October in the UK in 1987.
Why do we celebrate Black History Month?
Black History Month was created to bring attention on the contributions of people of African heritage to the United States, Canada and the UK. It honors all Black people from all periods of history, from the enslaved people first brought over from Africa in the early 17th century to people of African decent living in the United States, Canada and the UK today.
This year I am so excited to share with you all the new Black History Month crafts we are doing. We made crafts for Rosa Parks using paper plates, we used toilet paper rolls to make craft for MLK and Ruby Bridges and Harriet Tubman. We also created a solidarity sticky wall and many more.
How to Incorporate Black History Month at Home
The answer isn’t hard. Books (see below). Start off by reading an age appropriate book about a particular historical figure and then select an age appropriate craft, writing prompt or activity for your child to complete.
My favourite Black History Month Books for Kids
This year we created lots of new crafts and also did a giant word search. Check out the list below for more ideas.
Black History Month Activities
Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Sensory Bin
Giant Black History Month Word Search
Diversity Egg Activity
Martin Luther King, Jr. STEAM Activity
Hidden Figures STEM and Coding Activities
Black History Month Crafts
Paper Plate Baseball Lacing
Black History Month is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of African Americans to U.S. history. One notable figure who stands out, especially in the world of sports, is Jackie Robinson. To honor his legacy and love for baseball, this paper plate baseball lacing craft is a perfect activity for kids. It combines fun, creativity, and a great lesson in history, all wrapped up in one crafty project.
‘We Thank You” Rosa Parks bus Craft
Harriet Tubman Lantern Sun Catcher Craft
Handprint Dove Craft for MLK Jr.
Paper Plate Peace Craft for MLK Jr.
George Washington Carver Paper Plate Peanut Craft
Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Suncatcher Craft
Cardboard Guitar Craft inspired by Sister Rosetta Tharpe
Potato Chip Craft Inspired By George Crum
DIY Book Craft inspired by Maya Angelou
Harriet Tubman Lantern Craft
Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Rice Craft
‘I Have A Dream’ Pop-up Card Craft for MLK Jr.
Rosa Parks Rocking Bus Craft
‘I Have A Dream’ Sticky Wall for MLK Jr.
Diversity Fingerprint MLK Jr. Craft w/ free Printable
Black Lives Matter Painted Rocks
Stronger Together Handprint Craft for MLK Jr. Day w/ Free Printable
I Am Martin Luther King, Jr. Puppets
Black History Month Toilet Paper Roll Crafts
Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Cotton Pad Craft
Black History Month collaborative portrait poster art
Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Cupcake Liner Craft
Unity Rings Craft
Cardboard Crown Craft inspired by Jean-Michel Basquiat
Paper Plate Self Portraits inspired by Madam C.J. Walker
Paper Bag Backpack Craft inspired by Ruby Bridges
Cardboard Tube Microphone Craft inspired by Billie Holiday
Make a Kinder World Sensory Bag
Suncatcher Collage Craft Inspired by Alma Thomas
Bubble Wrap Hair Craft Inspired By Lorna Simpson
Nebular Painting Craft Inspired by Neil deGrasse Tyson
Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Handprint Craft
Black History Month Handprint Crafts
Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Toilet Paper Roll Craft
- Solidarity Sticky Wall: Anti-Racism Learning Activity – Happy Toddler Playtime
Colour the Heart Sticky Wall
Dr. Mae Jemison Rocket Ship Craft
Looking for more Anti-Racism, Diversity and Black History Month Activities? Check out these fun ideas:
- Diversity Crafts for Kids
- 30+ Anti-Racism Activities for Kids
- The Best Anti-Racism Toys for Kids
Craft Supplies for Celebrating Black History Month
- Black History Month Coloring Pages
- Colors of the World Crayons and Colouring Supplies
- Heart Foam Stickers for Black History Month
- Foam Stickers for Black History Month
- Collaborative Coloring Poster Kit for Black History Month
- People Color-In Magnet
- Black History Month Prince Ornaments Kit
- Black History Month Black Princess Color-In Wood Ornaments Kit
- Better Together Gel Clings
- Black History Month Suncatcher Kit
- Celebrate Black History Month Gel Clings
- Black History Month History in the Making Heart Suncatcher Kit
- Queen Canvas for Black History Month Painting Kit
- Black History in the Making Canvas Painting Kit
- Dreamers Canvas Painting Kit
Additional Resources
- 12 Must-Read Books for Black History Month – Kcedventures
- Black History Month: Learning about Thurgood Marshall – Crafty Moms Share
- Ruby Goes to School! Mini Ruby Bridges History Lesson for Kids – Look We’re Learning
- Teaching Young Children about Martin Luther King, Jr. – Crafty Moms Share
- Harlem Renaissance Unit Study – Look We’re Learning
- History Maker Matches! Black History Figure Puzzles – Look We’re Learning
WILL YOU TRY ANY OF THESE BLACK HISTORY MONTH ACTIVITIES WITH YOUR KIDS? PIN IT FOR LATER!
As an expert and enthusiast, I have access to a vast amount of information on various topics, including Black history. I can provide detailed insights and answer questions related to the concepts mentioned in this article. Let's dive into the information about Black History Month, its significance, and some activities that can be done to celebrate and learn about Black history.
Black History Month:
Black History Month is an annual celebration that takes place in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It is a time to recognize and honor the accomplishments, contributions, and experiences of people of African descent throughout history. The origins of Black History Month can be traced back to the early 20th century when historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans initiated "Negro History Week" in 1915 to address the lack of information on the achievements of Black individuals available to the public.
Over time, this week-long celebration expanded and evolved into Black History Month. In the United States, it became officially recognized in 1976, and since then, every U.S. president has designated February as Black History Month. Canada officially recognized February as Black History Month in 1995, and the United Kingdom designated October as Black History Month in 1987.
The purpose of Black History Month is to raise awareness, educate, and celebrate the diverse contributions and experiences of Black individuals throughout history. It serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the struggles, triumphs, and ongoing contributions of people of African descent in various fields, including art, science, politics, sports, and more.
Black History Month Activities:
This article mentions 50 meaningful and engaging activities that can be done to celebrate Black History Month with kids. These activities aim to inspire curiosity, empathy, and understanding of Black history and culture. Here are some examples of the activities mentioned:
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Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Sensory Bin: This activity can help children learn about Garret Morgan, an African American inventor who invented the traffic signal. It involves creating a sensory bin with colored objects representing traffic lights .
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Giant Black History Month Word Search: A word search activity can be a fun way for kids to learn about important figures and events in Black history. They can search for names, terms, and concepts related to Black history.
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Diversity Egg Activity: This activity promotes diversity and inclusivity by using eggs of different colors to represent diversity. It can be a starting point for discussions about the importance of embracing and celebrating differences.
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Hidden Figures STEM and Coding Activities: Inspired by the movie "Hidden Figures," these activities introduce kids to the contributions of African American women mathematicians and scientists at NASA. They involve hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and coding activities.
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Paper Plate Baseball Lacing: This craft activity honors Jackie Robinson, an African American baseball player who broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball. Kids can create a paper plate baseball and practice lacing it with yarn or string.
These are just a few examples of the activities mentioned in the article. The activities cover a wide range of interests and learning styles, including art, science, history, and more. They are designed to be both educational and enjoyable, allowing children to actively participate in their own learning journey.
Remember, engaging in these activities can provide an opportunity to have meaningful conversations with children about the importance of diversity, equality, and the contributions of Black individuals throughout history.
I hope this information helps you understand the significance of Black History Month and provides some ideas for activities to celebrate and learn about Black history with kids. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!
