5 Engaging Activities to Celebrate and Educate
Celebrating and educating on Black History Month is a great way for families to come together and learn more about the rich history and contributions of African Americans. Here are five interesting activities for families:
Family Movie Night
Choose and watch movies or documentaries that highlight important events and figures in black history. Films like “Selma,” “Hidden Figures,” or documentaries such as “13th” and “I Am Not Your Negro” can be both entertaining and educational. After the movie, have a discussion about what you learned and its significance.
Family Book Club
Select books written by black authors or that focus on African American history and culture. For younger children, books like “Henry’s Freedom Box” or “The Story of Ruby Bridges” are great choices. For older kids and adults, consider works by authors like Toni Morrison, Maya Angelou, or Ta-Nehisi Coates. Discuss the themes, characters, and historical context as a family.
Virtual Museum Tour
Explore online exhibits and virtual tours of museums dedicated to black history. Institutions like the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., offer online exhibits that can be explored from the comfort of your home. Discuss the exhibits together and encourage questions and reflections.
Cooking and Cultural Exchange
Explore African American cuisine by cooking traditional dishes together. This can be a fun and delicious way to learn about the diverse food traditions within the black community. Research the history behind the dishes you’re preparing and discuss how food has played a role in preserving cultural heritage.
Create a Family Tree
Take the opportunity to explore and document your family’s history. Discuss the importance of preserving family stories and memories. Highlight any notable achievements, challenges, and contributions made by family members. This can be a meaningful way to connect personal history with broader historical events.
Remember, the key is to foster open and respectful discussions, create a positive and inclusive learning environment, and encourage curiosity and empathy among family members.
