As February approaches, it’s time to celebrate Black History Month! Our free Black History Month secular homeschool planning guide provides a unique opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of African American history and culture. We’ll explore exciting and educational ideas for elementary-age kids across various subjects, including black history, literature, the civil rights movement, science and medicine, political figures, visual arts, and entrepreneurs and innovators.
Black History Month Secular Homeschool
Find your secular homeschool planning guides here! Black History Month is a time dedicated to celebrating and acknowledging African Americans’ achievements, contributions, and rich cultural heritage throughout history. Therefore, the purpose of Black History Month for kids and homeschooling is to:
Also, check out our Winter Secular Homeschool Planning Guide!
Promote Inclusivity: Black History Month encourages inclusivity by highlighting the diverse experiences, accomplishments, and perspectives of African Americans, fostering a sense of unity and understanding.
Educate and Inform: It provides an opportunity for kids to learn about key historical figures, events, and movements that have shaped the African American experience, promoting a more comprehensive understanding of American history.
Inspire Pride: By learning about the achievements and resilience of African Americans, kids can develop a sense of pride in their cultural heritage and gain confidence in their own identities.
Encourage Critical Thinking: Studying Black history prompts critical thinking and discussions about equality, justice, and the ongoing struggle for civil rights, fostering empathy and awareness.
Celebrate Diversity: Black History Month contributes to a broader appreciation of diversity, teaching children that every individual’s story is valuable and worthy of recognition.
Homeschooling offers a unique opportunity to integrate diverse perspectives into the curriculum, providing a well-rounded education that reflects the richness of American history and culture. Through literature, activities, and discussions, homeschoolers can create an inclusive learning environment that promotes cultural awareness and understanding.
Free Printable Black History Month Secular Homeschool Guide
Grab your free Black History Month secular homeschool guide here and look for more free printables throughout the post.
Black History Month: Literature
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Dive into the rich world of African American literature by incorporating captivating books into your homeschool curriculum. Explore classics like “Brown Girl Dreaming” by Jacqueline Woodson and “The Snowy Day” by Ezra Jack Keats. Discuss the themes, characters, and historical context with your little ones, fostering a love for diverse voices in literature.
“My People” by Langston Hughes is a beautiful picture book that celebrates the spirit and resilience of African American people through Hughes’ poetic verses and captivating illustrations.
“Amazing Grace” by Mary Hoffman: This empowering story follows a young girl named Grace who aspires to be anything she wants, breaking stereotypes and embracing her individuality.
“I, Too, Am America” by Langston Hughes: This picture book is a poetic tribute to the famous poem by Hughes, highlighting the importance of equality and the dream of a unified America.
“The People Could Fly” by Virginia Hamilton: A collection of African American folktales that are beautifully retold, preserving the oral tradition and captivating young readers’ imaginations.
“Maya Angelou: Little People, Big Dreams” by Lisbeth Kaiser: This illustrated biography introduces young readers to the life of Maya Angelou, emphasizing her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a renowned poet and author.
“Zora and Me” by Victoria Bond and T.R. Simon: A fictionalized story inspired by the childhood of Zora Neale Hurston, offering a glimpse into her early life and the mysteries she unraveled.
“Tar Beach” by Faith Ringgold: It is a story that combines narrative and quilt art, telling the tale of a young girl named Cassie who dreams of flying over her Harlem rooftop.
“The Great Migration: Journey to the North” by Eloise Greenfield is an informative and poetic book that explores the Great Migration, providing insight into the experiences of African American families who moved from the South to the North.
“Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat” by Javaka Steptoe: This award-winning picture book tells the story of artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, capturing his unique artistic journey and creative spirit.
“Brown Girl Dreaming” by Jacqueline Woodson: A memoir in verse, this book shares the author’s experiences growing up as an African American girl in the 1960s and 1970s, providing a powerful and poetic narrative.
Literature – Sheroes
More Inspiring books featuring sheroes—strong and empowering female characters—that align with the theme of Black History Month:
“Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly: Explore the incredible true story of the African American women mathematicians at NASA who played pivotal roles in the early days of the U.S. space program. This book celebrates the achievements of these brilliant women who broke barriers and contributed significantly to space exploration.
“Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History” by Vashti Harrison: This beautifully illustrated book introduces young readers to 40 trailblazing black women who have made remarkable contributions to various fields, including science, politics, literature, and the arts. Also, take a look at her other book, “Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History.”
“Mae Among the Stars” by Roda Ahmed: Based on the life of Mae Jemison, the first African American female astronaut, this picture book tells the story of a young girl with big dreams of traveling to space.
“Harlem’s Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills” by Renée Watson: Follow the inspiring journey of Florence Mills, a talented African American performer during the Harlem Renaissance. This picture book celebrates Mills’ courage and contributions to the arts, emphasizing the importance of following one’s dreams.
“The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist” by Cynthia Levinson: This book tells the true story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a courageous young girl who became the youngest known child to be arrested for a civil rights protest in Birmingham, Alabama. Through Hendricks’ story, children can learn about the power of young voices in the fight against segregation.
“Princess Hair” by Sharee Miller: Celebrate the diversity and beauty of natural black hair with this joyful picture book. Through vibrant illustrations and poetic text, “Princess Hair” empowers young girls to embrace their unique and beautiful hair textures.
“Brave. Black. First.: 50+ African American Women Who Changed the World” by Cheryl Hudson: This anthology highlights the achievements of over 50 African American women who made significant contributions to various fields. From scientists to activists, each woman’s story is presented concisely and inspiringly, making it an excellent resource for young readers.
Civil Rights Movement
Help your kids understand the importance of the civil rights movement by studying key events and figures. First, discuss the significance of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech and the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Then, engage in meaningful conversations about equality, justice, and the ongoing struggle for civil rights today.
Make this Martin Luther King Jr Zine!
Black History Month: Science and Medicine
Highlight the achievements of African American scientists and medical professionals who have made groundbreaking contributions. Then, explore the work of figures like Dr. Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space. How about Dr. Charles Drew, a pioneer in blood transfusion research?
Famous Black Scientists Collection: Explore the incredible contributions of African American scientists who have made a lasting impact in various fields. From groundbreaking inventions to advancements in science, these individuals have shaped our world today.
Political Figures
Introduce your kids to influential African American political figures who have played pivotal roles in shaping the nation, such as Barack Obama, the first African American president. Also, learn about Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman elected to Congress. Discuss the importance of representation and the impact of these leaders on the political landscape.
Note: Our Black History Month Project Pack includes Barack Obama (see below).
Visual Arts
Explore the diverse world of visual arts with your elementary-age kids by introducing them to the works of influential African American artists.
Begin with the vibrant and abstract paintings of Alma Thomas, where the kaleidoscope of colors and patterns will captivate their imaginations.
Transition to the dynamic and expressive portrait art of Jean-Michel Basquiat, known for his bold neo-expressionist works that convey powerful social messages. Encourage discussions about Basquiat’s use of symbols and storytelling.
Expand the artistic exploration to include collage with Lorna Simpson, a contemporary artist whose thought-provoking photographic and multimedia works delve into issues of identity and race.
Create stories with shapes and colors like this collage with Jacob Lawrence! His paintings are colorful and use interesting shapes to tell important stories. Jacob Lawrence’s art helps us understand the history and feelings of different communities.
Black History Month: Entrepreneurs and Innovators
Highlight the achievements of African American entrepreneurs and innovators who have significantly contributed to various industries. Discuss the success stories of figures like Madam C.J. Walker, the first female self-made millionaire in the United States, and Garrett Morgan, the inventor of the traffic signal.
Note: Garret Morgan is included in our Black History Month Project Pack below.
Grab our free Black History Inventors Cards!
Printable Black History Month Project Pack
Explore 10 famous black men and women who have helped shape the history of our country through their words and actions in science, literature, and art.
You’ll find secret codes, coloring projects, engineering projects, games, and more! This pack can be used for various ages, including 5-10. Whether you read it aloud to a class or allow the kids to read the information independently is up to you!
WHO’S INCLUDED:
- Maya Angelou
- Ruby Bridges
- Mae Jemison
- Barack Obama
- Martin Luther King Jr.
- Garret Morgan
- Mary Jackson
- Elijah McCoy
- Mavis Pusey Project Pack
- Matthew Henson Project Pack
