It can be challenging for teachers to find quality activities and program resources – especially culturally appropriate, anti-racist support for young children. Particularly in February as we celebrate Black History Month, we are reminded to delve into resources that lift up and celebrate the Black community. However, the importance of celebrating the uniqueness and commonalities of children extends well beyond a few weeks each year.
When evaluating classroom resources, look at the source. Websites and publications crafted within the community, by people who live the experience, are more likely to represent a more culturally accurate view of their reality.
RESOURCES
The following resources could be a starting point for developing your own teaching collection.
- The Kennedy Center – Students can explore Black history through music, poetry, and dance. Appropriate for students of all ages.
- African American History Month – Teachers can access lesson plans, and students can explore primary sources including artwork, baseball cards, drawings, and photographs.
- RESilience – This large parent resource database addresses the effects of racism, racial bias, and discrimination. For crafting early learning lesson plans, check out Racial Stress and Self-care, Reading and RES, and Books about Race and Ethnicity.
- Romper – These children’s books star Black characters that not only focus on racism and history but also showcase kids being their joyful, creative, adventurous selves.
- The Strategist – Check out this list of Black-owned businesses offering toys, games, activities and more.
- The Black Toy Store – This is the destination for hand-picked collections of children’s toys, games, books, and gifts that reflect the beauty and diversity of the African diaspora.
- Black Children’s Books and Authors – This booklist showcases Black children’s authors and illustrators, including winners of the Coretta Scott King Book Awards, Caldecott Medal, John Newberry Medal, and NAACP Image Awards.
Have a resource you love? Let us know in the comments, tag us in your post, or DM us with your ideas!
