Celebrate the achievements of Black Americans all year long with some of these suggestions. If you’re interested in learning more, this year’s focus is on African Americans and Labor. 2025 is the 100-year anniversary of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters and Maids Union: the first Black union to receive a charter in the American Federation of Labor. Find out more about A. Philip Randolph, the labor organizer and civil rights activist who fought to create it.
Read stories. One of the best ways to celebrate and honor Black History Month is through literature. Diverse characters and stories help children celebrate differences, develop empathy and lay the foundation for greater conversations about diversity and belonging. Here are some suggestions by age:
Infant/Toddler
- One Love written by Cedella Marley and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
- Baby Young, Gifted, and Black: With a Mirror! written by Jamia Wilson and illustrated by Andrea Pippins
- Why Not You? Written by Ciara and Russell Wilson and illustrated by Jessica Gibson
Preschool/Pre-K
- Have You Thanked an Inventor Today? written by Patrice McLaurin and illustrated by Dian Wang
- Saving the Day: Garrett Morgan's Life-Changing Invention of the Traffic Signal written by Karyn Parsons and illustrated by R. Gregory Christie
- I Promise written by LeBron James and illustrated by Nina Mata
Watch diverse TV shows and movies. Find TV shows and movies with Black representation. There are great options for young children available online and through streaming services including:
- Gabby’s Dollhouse
- Rhymes Through Times
- Tab Time
- Esme and Roy
- Lyla in the Loop
- Karma’s World
- Motown Magic
- Kiya and the Kimoja Heroes
- Jool’s TV
- Gracie's Corner
- Ada Twist, Scientist
Explore Black History through museums and art. This can be done virtually or in-person like at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.
Listen to music. Black Americans have significantly influenced music from blues to jazz to rock n’ roll. Introduce your little ones to some of your favorite Black artists. Sesame Street has a great compilation on their YouTube channel.
