Raising children and promoting social justice can feel like a complicated but important topic. How do we do this? As Martin Luther King Jr. Day approaches, consider using some of these resources to have conversations with your children.
Talking About Activism
Activities and Resources from the National Museum of African American History and Culture
Martin had a dream. What’s yours?, opens a new window This helpful guide created by the National Museum of African American History and Culture encourages you to “think, talk and dream together,” create art, and most of all, learn about activism then and now. What can you do today?
The Voices of the Many
It’s important to recognize that activism and movements aren’t created by one single person but by many. We all - leaders, caregivers and community members alike - can gather to lift up, support and encourage. Embrace Race, opens a new window provides an article about the importance of telling not just one story, but many, of the Civil Rights movement.
Keeping Open Communication with Children
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, opens a new window has a wonderful resource about embracing diversity and ending racism with daily conversations and encouraging open communication and acceptance.
Kindness Activities
What can we do to show kindness to all people? Elmo has an idea!
Elmo and his friends are making a Peace Tree to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. They each draw pictures on leaves to show how they will carry on Dr. King’s wish by treating people fairly and kindly, but Elmo doesn’t know what to draw. With Tamir’s help, Elmo finds the perfect thing to draw on his leaf and complete the tree.
Sharing Stories
Stories unite us. They are a powerful tool and give us windows, doors and mirrors to reflect perspectives. StoryCorps , opens a new windowcreated a resource of conversations between civil rights activists, trailblazers and loved ones about Martin Luther King Jr. and the enduring legacy of the civil rights movement.
Have questions? Need support diving into a specific parenting topic or theme? Your Child and Family library service librarians are here to help!
Add a comment to: Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Now Is the Time for Hope and Healing