Black History is American History, and teaching kids about it shouldn’t be limited to one month a year. Whether you’re reading books, having conversations, or exploring your local community, there are countless ways to help kids understand the rich contributions, struggles, and triumphs of Black Americans.
In a Just Add Sprinkles podcast episode, we explored how parents can educate their kids about Black history in meaningful, age-appropriate ways. Keep reading for practical ideas, helpful resources, and ways to make Black history a year-round learning experience.
🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode here
1. Start with Books That Celebrate Black History
One of the easiest ways to introduce Black history is through diverse books that highlight Black leaders, historical events, and everyday life. Books help kids develop empathy, understanding, and curiosity about history and different cultures.
Great books for younger kids:
- Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry
- Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed
- All Because You Matter by Tami Charles
Great books for older kids:
- The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander
- Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
- Stamped (For Kids): Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds & Ibram X. Kendi
2. Visit Local Black History Sites & Museums
Many cities have museums, landmarks, and exhibits that showcase Black history and culture. Taking kids on interactive field trips can make history feel real and relevant.
If you’re in a major city, check out:
- The National Museum of African American History & Culture (Washington, D.C.)
- The Civil Rights Museum (Memphis, TN)
- The Legacy Museum (Montgomery, AL)
Looking for something local? Try researching:
- Black-owned businesses and historical districts
- African American heritage trails
- Local Black history museums
Tip: After visiting, ask your kids: “What surprised you?” “What inspired you?” Encourage open-ended conversations to process what they learned.
3. Celebrate Black Innovators, Artists, and Leaders 🎨
Black history isn’t just about struggle—it’s about resilience, creativity, and groundbreaking contributions in science, music, sports, business, and activism.
Black scientists & inventors to explore:
- George Washington Carver (agriculture)
- Mae Jemison (NASA astronaut)
- Garrett Morgan (traffic light inventor)
Black musicians & artists to introduce:
- Louis Armstrong & Ella Fitzgerald (Jazz)
- Misty Copeland (Ballet)
- Jean-Michel Basquiat (Art)
Black athletes who made history:
- Jackie Robinson (Baseball)
- Serena Williams (Tennis)
- Simone Biles (Gymnastics)
Tip: Watch short videos or documentaries about these figures and discuss their impact as a family.
4. Encourage Conversations About Race & Equality
Kids notice differences from an early age, so it’s important to talk about race, history, and justice in age-appropriate ways.
For younger kids: Keep it simple.
- “We all have different skin colors, and that’s beautiful!”
- “Some people weren’t treated fairly in history, but we can help make things better.”
For older kids: Ask open-ended questions.
- “Why do you think Black history is important?”
- “What’s something new you learned about a Black leader?”
5. Support & Uplift Black-Owned Businesses 💡
One way to honor Black history is by actively supporting Black entrepreneurs, authors, and creators.
Ideas for families:
- Eat at a Black-owned restaurant and learn about its history.
- Buy from Black-owned bookstores (like Mahogany Books or The Lit. Bar).
- Shop for gifts, art, and products from Black creators on Etsy or local markets.
Tip: Turn it into a fun challenge—each month, choose a Black-owned brand to explore as a family!
6. Make Black History a Year-Round Celebration
Black history isn’t just for February—it’s for every day of the year.
Ways to keep learning year-round:
- Keep diverse books in your home library
- Watch documentaries together (Hidden Figures, 42, Selma)
- Support community events that celebrate Black culture
- Keep having honest conversations with your kids
By making Black history a consistent part of your family’s conversations and experiences, you help raise kids who appreciate and value diversity—not just in history, but in everyday life.
Listen to the Podcast for More Ideas!
For more practical ways to educate kids about Black history, check out the Just Add Sprinkles podcast episode on this topic:
