Teaching Little Ones About Black History: Resources for Kids and Parents

By Brooke Abbott Abron

As parents, we have the incredible opportunity to introduce our children to a history that is rich, diverse, and reflective of the world we live in. Teaching kids about Black history isn’t just about understanding the past—it’s about helping them see the full picture of the world, where people of all races, cultures, and genders have contributed to shaping our present. Black history is an essential part of American history, and by weaving these stories into our everyday learning, we foster empathy, awareness, and a deeper appreciation for the brilliance and resilience of Black communities.

Rather than teaching kids to be “colorblind,” we can encourage them to see the beauty in diversity. While the idea of not seeing race may seem like a way to promote equality, it can unintentionally erase the unique experiences and contributions of different cultures. Instead, we can help our children recognize and celebrate the vast spectrum of Black identity and culture. Black history isn’t just about struggle—it’s about creativity, leadership, innovation, and joy. By making these stories a regular part of our children’s education, we create a world where inclusion is natural and appreciation is second nature.

Another important aspect of these conversations is allyship. True allyship goes beyond being friendly with people of different backgrounds—it means recognizing privilege and understanding how to use it to create safer, more equitable spaces for everyone. We can teach our children to be the kind of friends who listen, stand up for what’s right, and support others in meaningful ways. When kids learn about allyship early on, they grow into adults who advocate for fairness, justice, and inclusion in all aspects of life.

If you’re looking for ways to naturally incorporate Black history into your child’s daily learning, here are some simple and engaging resources and activities that parents and kids can enjoy together.

1. Read Books That Celebrate Black History

Books are one of the best ways to introduce kids to history and culture in a way that’s accessible and engaging. There are so many wonderful children’s books that celebrate Black leaders, inventors, artists, and everyday heroes.

• For Toddlers & Preschoolers: Try board books like "Dream Big, Little One" by Vashti Harrison, "Baby Young, Gifted, and Black" by Jamia Wilson, and "I Am Smart, I Am Blessed, I Can Do Anything" by Alissa Holder and Zulekha Holder-Young.

• For Elementary-Aged Kids: Picture books like "Mae Among the Stars" by Roda Ahmed, "Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History" by Vashti Harrison, "Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race" by Margot Lee Shetterly, and "Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea" by Meena Harris help kids learn about inspiring figures.

• For Older Kids: Chapter books like "Stamped (For Kids)" by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi, "The Undefeated" by Kwame Alexander, and "Brown Girl Dreaming" by Jacqueline Woodson offer a deeper understanding of history and activism.

2. Make Learning Interactive with Crafts & Activities

Hands-on learning is a great way to make history come alive for kids. Incorporate simple crafts that help them connect with Black history in a creative way.

• DIY Civil Rights Posters: Teach kids about the Civil Rights Movement by having them create their own inspiring protest signs with positive messages of equality and unity.

• Harriet Tubman Lantern Craft: Help kids make a paper lantern to symbolize the guiding lights used on the Underground Railroad.

• African Textile Patterns: Use crayons or markers to create colorful kente cloth patterns and discuss the history behind African textiles.

• Disability-Friendly Craft: Create a digital collage of Black historical figures using apps like Canva or a simple photo collage app—perfect for kids with different abilities to explore history in an accessible way.

3. Tips for Non-Black Parents on Teaching Black History

If you're a non-Black parent, it’s important to approach Black history with thoughtfulness, respect, and a commitment to learning alongside your children. Here are some tips:

• Use Inclusive Language: Instead of saying Black history is "separate" from American history, emphasize that Black history is American history.

• Avoid the "Hero-Only" Narrative: While leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks are important, also teach about lesser-known figures like Claudette Colvin, Bass Reeves, and Fannie Lou Hamer.

• Encourage Awareness, Not Colorblindness: Teach children to recognize and celebrate racial and cultural differences instead of pretending they don’t exist. Help them see diversity as a strength and acknowledge that different experiences shape our world in valuable ways.

• Acknowledge Struggles & Achievements: Discuss both the hardships Black communities have faced and the incredible contributions they have made to culture, science, and social progress.

4. Explore Online Educational Resources

There are incredible websites and social media accounts designed to teach kids about Black history in an engaging way.

• Websites:

• PBS Kids – Fun videos and activities focused on Black history and culture.

• The National Museum of African American History & Culture – Online learning tools for kids and families.

• BrainPOP – Kid-friendly animated videos about important Black historical figures and events.

• Social Media Accounts to Follow:

• @theconsciouskid – Resources on diverse books and talking to kids about race.

• @hereweeread – Reviews of diverse children’s books.

• @weecharacter – Promotes positive representation of Black and brown characters in kids’ media.

5. Watch Age-Appropriate Films & Documentaries

Movies and documentaries can be a great way to introduce kids to Black history in a visual and engaging way.

• For Younger Kids: "Garrett’s Gift" (about inventor Garrett Morgan) and "Dancing in the Light: The Janet Collins Story".

• For Older Kids: "Ruby Bridges" and "Hidden Figures" offer powerful, true stories about Black trailblazers.

By weaving Black history into everyday conversations, reading diverse books, and engaging in meaningful activities, we help our children see the beauty and richness of history in a more inclusive way. These small but intentional efforts build a foundation for lifelong learning, empathy, and appreciation. Let’s make learning about Black history a journey filled with joy, discovery, and inspiration for our little ones!

Brooke Abbott Abron for Giggles LA: Known as Crazy Creole Mommy online, Brooke is a mom, advocate, activist, baby-wearing educator, and writer. As the founder of IBDMoms, she combines practical tips, mom advice, and evidence-based insights from her own lived experience to help families navigate both the joys and challenges of parenting.