How to Talk to Your Children About Black History Month: A Parent’s Guide

A comprehensive resource for parents seeking age-appropriate ways to celebrate Black history, honor African American achievements, and have meaningful conversations about race with their children

February is here again. Hallways fill with portraits of civil rights leaders. Classrooms buzz with lessons about pioneers and trailblazers. For many parents, this month raises an important question: How do I talk to my children about Black History Month in a way that is meaningful, age-appropriate, and honest?

This guide is here to help you navigate those conversations with confidence. Whether your family is Black, white, multiracial, or from any other background, you play a critical role in shaping how your child understands American history, racial identity, and the ongoing pursuit of equality.

Black History Month is not just about the past. It is about the present and the future. It is about raising children who understand the full scope of American history. It is about nurturing empathy, celebrating diversity, and helping young people recognize the contributions of African Americans across every field imaginable.

Let us begin this journey together.

What Is Black History Month and Why Do We Celebrate It in February?

Before you can explain Black History Month to your child, it helps to understand its origins yourself. The story begins with one remarkable man and his refusal to let history forget an entire people.

The Father of Black History: Carter G. Woodson

Carter G. Woodson (1875–1950) was born in Virginia to parents who had been enslaved. Despite these humble beginnings, he became only the second African American to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard University, following W.E.B. Du Bois.

Woodson witnessed something troubling during his years as an educator. He saw that African American contributions were “overlooked, ignored, and even suppressed by the writers of history textbooks and the teachers who use them,” according to the NAACP.

In 1915, Woodson founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (now known as ASALH). Then, on February 7, 1926, he launched the first Negro History Week.

Why February? Woodson chose this month because it contains the birthdays of two men who were deeply significant to the Black community:

*Frederick Douglass, who was born into slavery and did not know his actual birth date, chose to celebrate his birthday on February 14.

Black communities had already been celebrating these birthdays for decades. Woodson built on this existing tradition rather than creating something entirely new. This strategic decision increased his chances for success.

From One Week to One Month

The celebration remained a week-long observance for half a century. However, by the late 1960s, the Civil Rights Movement and the Black Power movement had transformed American consciousness. Young African Americans on college campuses began to demand a longer period of recognition.

In 1976, fifty years after the first Negro History Week, ASALH officially expanded the observance to Black History Month. That same year, President Gerald Ford called on Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

Since then, every U.S. president has issued proclamations endorsing the annual celebration.

The 2026 Theme: A Century of Black History Commemorations

This year marks a historic milestone. 2026 represents 100 years of national commemorations of Black history. The theme chosen by ASALH is “A Century of Black History Commemorations.”

According to ASALH, this year invites Americans to “explore the impact and meaning of Black history and life commemorations in transforming the status of Black peoples in the modern world.”

This anniversary coincides with another major celebration: the 250th anniversary of United States independence. As ASALH notes, “It is important to tell not only an inclusive history, but an accurate one.”

Why Should Parents Talk to Their Children About Black History?

Some parents wonder whether their children are “too young” to learn about race or history. Research consistently shows that this assumption is incorrect.

Children Notice Race Earlier Than You Think

Scientific studies reveal that children become aware of racial differences at a surprisingly young age:

According to research published in the journal Child Development, the ability to discriminate visually based on race emerges early in infancy, with three-month-olds able to perceptually differentiate faces by race.

Dr. Sheila Modir, a pediatric psychologist at CHOC Children’s Hospital, explains that by age five, children “will begin to pick up cues from their parents on how to treat others of different races.” This means your silence speaks as loudly as your words.

The Problem with Color-Blindness

Many well-meaning parents adopt a “color-blind” approach. They might say things like, “We don’t see color in this family” or “There’s only one race—the human race.”

While these statements come from a good place, research suggests this approach can backfire. According to Yale experts, avoiding conversations about race sends a message that there is something off-limits or even bad about racial differences.

Dr. Wanjiku Njoroge, a board-certified child psychiatrist at Yale, recalls a young patient who asked if her skin was so dark because she did not take baths. Without guidance, children fill gaps in their understanding with incorrect assumptions.

A 2021 study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology found that adults consistently underestimate children’s ability to process information about race. Parents often delay important conversations because they assume their children cannot understand them yet.

Black History Is American History

Here is an essential point to remember: Black history is not separate from American history. It is central to understanding who we are as a nation.

When children learn only about European contributions to American society, they receive an incomplete education. They miss the stories of:

• Inventors who created items we use every day
• Scientists who advanced medicine and technology
• Artists who shaped music, literature, and visual arts
• Leaders who fought for the rights we now take for granted
• Everyday people whose labor built much of this country

Teaching Black history helps all children—regardless of their own racial background—understand the full, complex, and inspiring story of America.

Age-Appropriate Ways to Explain Black History Month to Children

Every child is different. The words you use with a four-year-old will differ from those you use with a twelve-year-old. Below are suggestions for different age groups.

Talking to Toddlers and Preschoolers (Ages 2-5)

At this age, keep things simple and positive. Focus on celebrating differences and building a foundation for later, more complex conversations.

What to say:

• “February is a special month when we learn about and celebrate Black people and all the amazing things they have done.”
• “People come in many different skin colors. Isn’t that wonderful?”
• “Everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and fairness.”

What to do:

• Read picture books featuring Black characters in everyday situations
• Listen to music by Black artists together
• Point out similarities and differences in a positive way
• Answer questions honestly in simple terms

Key concepts for this age:

• Fairness (young children understand this instinctively)
• Kindness
• Celebrating differences
• Everyone deserves respect

Recommended books for ages 2-5:

Talking to Early Elementary Students (Ages 6-8)

Children at this age are ready for more detail. They can understand basic concepts of fairness, inequality, and history. However, they still need reassurance and hope.

What to say:

• “A long time ago, some people were treated unfairly because of the color of their skin. That was wrong.”
• “Brave people worked hard to change unfair rules. We still work together today to make sure everyone is treated fairly.”
• “Black History Month helps us remember these brave people and learn about all the amazing things Black Americans have done.”

What to do:

• Watch age-appropriate documentaries or films together
• Visit a museum exhibit (virtually or in person)
• Create a timeline of important events together
• Read biographies of historical figures

Key concepts for this age:

• Historical figures and their accomplishments
• The idea that rules and laws have changed over time
• The concept of standing up for what is right
• Contributions of Black Americans in various fields

Conversation starters:

• “What did you learn about Black History Month at school today?”
• “What surprised you most about what you learned?”
• “How do you think that person felt?”
• “What can we do to make sure everyone is treated fairly?”

Talking to Upper Elementary Students (Ages 9-11)

Children in this age group can handle more complex information. They are ready to learn about historical injustices in greater detail, though you should still focus on empowerment and progress.

What to say:

• “Throughout American history, Black people faced many unfair laws and practices. Some people were enslaved, which means they were forced to work without pay and treated as property.”
• “Many brave people—both Black and white—fought to end these injustices.”
• “The fight for equality continues today. Everyone has a role to play in making our society more fair.”

What to do:

• Read more detailed historical accounts together
• Discuss current events related to race
• Watch films like Hidden Figures or The Watsons Go to Birmingham
• Research local Black history in your community
• Create projects about historical figures

Key concepts for this age:

• Slavery and its legacy
• The Civil Rights Movement
• Ongoing issues of racial inequality
• Ways to be an ally and advocate

Important note: When discussing difficult topics like slavery, focus on the humanity, resistance, and resilience of enslaved people. Avoid presenting Black history as only a history of suffering. Emphasize achievements, innovations, and joy as well.

Talking to Middle Schoolers and Teenagers (Ages 12+)

Adolescents are ready for nuanced, in-depth conversations. They may already be learning about these topics in school or seeing them discussed on social media. Your role is to provide context, answer tough questions, and guide critical thinking.

What to say:

• “The effects of slavery and segregation did not disappear overnight. We still see their impact in things like wealth gaps, educational disparities, and unequal treatment by institutions.”
• “What do you think when you see these issues discussed online or in the news?”
• “History is complicated. People can be heroes in some ways and flawed in others. What matters is that we learn from the past.”

What to do:

• Watch documentaries like 13th or Eyes on the Prize
• Read books by Black authors
• Discuss current events openly
• Encourage them to seek out diverse perspectives
• Support their engagement with social issues if they are interested

Key concepts for this age:

• Systemic racism and institutional inequality
• Intersectionality
• The difference between prejudice and racism
• Historical and contemporary activism
• Media literacy around racial issues

Notable Black Americans Your Children Should Learn About

Black History Month is an opportunity to expand your child’s knowledge beyond the few figures typically mentioned in textbooks. Here are some remarkable individuals organized by field.

Civil Rights Leaders

Scientists and Inventors

Artists and Writers

Sports Pioneers

Business Leaders and Entrepreneurs

Political Leaders

Practical Activities to Celebrate Black History Month as a Family

Learning is most effective when it is active and engaging. Here are concrete activities you can do together.

Read Together Every Day

Books are one of the best tools for teaching Black history. Here is a reading list organized by age:

For Young Children (Ages 3-8):

• The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles
• Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race (picture book version) by Margot Lee Shetterly
• Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison
• I Am Rosa Parks by Brad Meltzer
• Let the Children March by Monica Clark-Robinson

For Older Children (Ages 9-12):

• Who Was Harriet Tubman? by Yona Zeldis McDonough
• March (graphic novel trilogy) by John Lewis and Andrew Aydin
• Stamped (For Kids) by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi
• One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia
• The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis

For Teenagers:

• The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
• Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi
• Just Mercy (adapted for young adults) by Bryan Stevenson
• Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates

Watch Films and Documentaries Together

Visual media can bring history to life. Here are some options:

For Younger Children:

• The Princess and the Frog (Disney)
• Ruby Bridges (1998)
• The Color of Friendship (Disney Channel)

For Older Children and Families:

• Hidden Figures (PG)
• The Watsons Go to Birmingham (TV movie)
• Selma (PG-13, suitable for ages 12+)
• Remember the Titans (PG)

For Teenagers:

• 13th (documentary)
• Eyes on the Prize (documentary series)
• Malcolm X (1992)
• Just Mercy (PG-13)

Visit Museums and Historical Sites

Many museums offer both in-person and virtual experiences:

• Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (Washington, D.C.) – offers an online learning lab
• Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History (Detroit)
• National Civil Rights Museum (Memphis)
• Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (Alabama)

Check your local library and community centers for Black History Month events and exhibits.

Create a Family History Project

Help your children connect Black history to their own family:

• Interview older family members about their experiences
• Research your family’s genealogy
• Create a timeline of your family’s history
• Discuss how historical events affected your family or community

Start a “Kind Leader Challenge”

According to TulsaKids Magazine, focusing on values like courage, fairness, and kindness helps children connect Black history to their daily lives.

Here is how it works:

1. Each family member chooses one way they will “lead with kindness” for the week
2. Examples include: helping a classmate, speaking up when something seems wrong, including someone who is left out
3. At the end of the week, share what you learned
4. The goal is awareness and effort, not perfection

How to Handle Difficult Questions From Children

Children ask tough questions. Here is how to respond with honesty and sensitivity.

“Why were Black people treated so badly?”

This is a question about injustice, and children deserve an honest answer.

What to say: “For a long time, some people believed that the color of a person’s skin made them better or worse than others. This is called racism, and it was used to justify treating Black people unfairly. It was wrong then, and it is wrong now. Many brave people worked hard to change these unfair beliefs and laws.”

“Does racism still exist?”

Be honest, but also offer hope.

What to say: “Yes, racism still exists. Some people still have unfair ideas about others based on skin color. We can see unfairness in how some people are treated differently. But many people are working every day to make things more fair. We can be part of that work too.”

“Am I racist?”

This question often comes from white children who are learning about racial injustice for the first time.

What to say: “Having racist thoughts does not make someone a bad person. Everyone absorbs messages from the world around them. What matters is what we do. We can choose to treat everyone fairly, speak up against injustice, and keep learning about how to do better.”

“Why do people have different skin colors?”

Keep it simple and scientific.

What to say: “Skin color comes from something called melanin. People whose ancestors lived in sunny places often have more melanin, which makes skin darker. People whose ancestors lived in places with less sun often have less melanin. Skin color tells us about where our ancestors lived, but it does not tell us anything about who someone is inside.”

When You Do Not Know the Answer

It is okay to say, “I’m not sure. Let’s find out together.”

Dr. Amalia Londono Tobon, a psychiatrist at the Yale Child Study Center, advises parents: “Be comfortable with the fact that you don’t know everything. The words are important, but what’s more important is that you are open to talk about this.”

Tips for Parents From Child Development Experts

Psychologists and educators offer the following guidance:

Start Early and Keep Talking

Conversations about race should not be one-time events. Make them a regular part of family life.

According to EmbraceRace, a community dedicated to raising children in the context of race, parents should “make race talks with your child routine. Race is a topic you should plan to revisit again and again in many different ways over time.”

Check Your Own Biases First

Before talking to your children, reflect on your own experiences and attitudes.

Questions to ask yourself:

• How did I learn about race growing up?
• What biases might I carry without realizing it?
• Am I comfortable discussing this topic? If not, why?

Dr. Roger Harrison at Nemours Children’s Health notes that parents “must get the facts” and “clarify your family’s values” before beginning these conversations.

Use Age-Appropriate Language

Match your vocabulary and concepts to your child’s developmental stage. Use simple, concrete language with young children. Offer more nuance with older children and teenagers.

Focus on Empowerment, Not Just Suffering

Black history includes tremendous suffering, but it also includes extraordinary achievement, joy, resistance, and innovation.

Dawnavyn James, a Black history educator, emphasizes that “students must be taught that Black History did not begin or end with slavery.” She notes that too often there is “only talk about oppression, slavery, and the civil rights movement, but we don’t teach the full humanity of Black people.”

Be a Role Model

Children learn by watching adults. If you want your children to value diversity and treat everyone with respect, they need to see you doing the same.

This includes:

• Having diverse friendships
• Consuming media from diverse creators
• Speaking up against prejudice when you see it
• Acknowledging your own mistakes and learning from them

Listen More Than You Speak

Ask your children questions and truly listen to their answers:

• “What have you heard about this at school?”
• “What do your friends say about this?”
• “How does that make you feel?”

Listening helps you understand what your child already knows and what misconceptions they might have.

Common Mistakes Parents Make and How to Avoid Them

Even well-intentioned parents can stumble. Here are some common pitfalls:

Mistake #1: Waiting Until Children Are “Old Enough”

The problem: By the time parents think their children are ready, the children have already formed opinions based on limited information.

The fix: Start age-appropriate conversations early. Even toddlers can learn about fairness and celebrating differences.

Mistake #2: Only Talking About Black History in February

The problem: Limiting discussions to one month suggests that Black history is separate from “regular” history.

The fix: Integrate Black history into your family’s learning throughout the year. Read books by Black authors year-round. Discuss current events that relate to racial justice whenever they occur.

Mistake #3: Focusing Only on Tragedy

The problem: When Black history is only about slavery, segregation, and suffering, it can leave Black children feeling hopeless and white children feeling guilty.

The fix: Balance difficult topics with stories of triumph, innovation, and joy. Celebrate Black inventors, artists, scientists, and everyday heroes.

Mistake #4: Using the “Color-Blind” Approach

The problem: Saying “I don’t see color” ignores the reality that race does matter in our society. It can also invalidate the experiences of people of color.

The fix: Acknowledge differences and celebrate them. Help children understand that treating people fairly means recognizing and respecting their unique identities.

Mistake #5: Avoiding Questions About Current Events

The problem: Children see news about racial injustice on television, social media, and in conversations around them. Silence from parents leaves them to interpret these events alone.

The fix: Address current events directly using age-appropriate language. Ask what they have seen or heard, and help them process it.

Resources for Continued Learning

Websites

• Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture – Online learning lab with resources for all ages
• PBS Kids – Tips, books, and resources for talking to young children
• EmbraceRace – Community resources for raising children with racial awareness
• Zinn Education Project – People’s history resources for educators and families
• ASALH – Official organization for Black History Month

Organizations

• National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
• Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH)
• The King Center
• National Civil Rights Museum

Podcasts for Families

• Circle Round (NPR) – Folktales from around the world
• Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls – Stories of remarkable women
• Brains On! – Science podcast that covers diverse scientists

Final Thoughts: Why These Conversations Matter

Talking to your children about Black History Month is about more than facts and dates. It is about raising human beings who understand their place in a diverse society. It is about building empathy, critical thinking, and a commitment to justice.

For Black children, these conversations provide essential context for their own identity. They learn that their ancestors were not just victims of history but active shapers of it. They see themselves reflected in stories of innovation, courage, and achievement.

For white children and children of other backgrounds, these conversations build cultural competence and empathy. They learn to appreciate perspectives different from their own. They understand that fighting injustice is everyone’s responsibility.

For all children, learning about Black history is learning about American history in its fullest form.

As Carter G. Woodson himself wrote, the goal of studying Black history was never to confine it to a single week or month. His hope was that one day, Black history would be woven into the everyday fabric of American education and culture.

We are not there yet. But every conversation you have with your child brings us one step closer.

A Parent’s Checklist for Black History Month

Use this checklist to guide your family’s celebration:

• [ ] Explain what Black History Month is and why we celebrate it
• [ ] Read at least one book about Black history together
• [ ] Learn about a historical figure you did not know before
• [ ] Watch an age-appropriate film or documentary
• [ ] Visit a museum exhibit (in person or online)
• [ ] Discuss how Black history connects to your family’s story
• [ ] Have a conversation about fairness and treating everyone with respect
• [ ] Talk about what you can do to make your community more fair
• [ ] Commit to continuing the conversation beyond February

How to Support Black-Owned Businesses During Black History Month

Teaching children about Black history extends beyond books and conversations. It includes showing them how to support Black communities in practical ways. Visiting Black-owned businesses provides a tangible way to celebrate Black achievement and entrepreneurship.

Why This Matters

When families patronize Black-owned businesses, they:

• Support economic growth in Black communities
• Show children that Black entrepreneurship has a long and proud history
• Create opportunities for meaningful conversations about business and community
• Model values of intentional support and community investment

Ideas for Family Outings

Consider these activities that combine learning with supporting Black entrepreneurs:

Food and Dining:

• Visit a Black-owned restaurant and learn about the cuisine
• Purchase groceries from a Black-owned market
• Try recipes from Black chefs and cookbook authors

Shopping:

• Buy books from Black-owned bookstores
• Purchase toys and games from Black creators
• Find clothing or accessories from Black designers

Services:

• Visit a Black-owned barbershop or hair salon
• Support Black artists by purchasing their work
• Attend events at Black-owned venues

Making It Educational

Turn these outings into learning opportunities:

• Ask business owners about their stories (when appropriate)
• Research the history of Black business ownership in America
• Discuss the challenges Black entrepreneurs have faced historically
• Talk about Madam C.J. Walker and other pioneering Black business owners

How Schools Approach Black History Month and How Parents Can Support

Understanding what your child learns at school helps you reinforce and expand upon those lessons at home.

What Schools Typically Cover

Most schools include some Black History Month programming, which may include:

• Lessons about key figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Harriet Tubman
• Reading assignments featuring Black authors or characters
• Art projects related to African American culture
• Assemblies or performances celebrating Black history
• Research projects about historical figures

Questions to Ask Your Child’s Teacher

Engage with your child’s school by asking:

• What themes or topics are you covering for Black History Month?
• Which books are students reading?
• Are there any projects I can support at home?
• How is Black history integrated throughout the year, not just in February?
• Are there any classroom resources you need that I could help provide?

Supplementing School Learning at Home

Schools often have limited time to cover Black history comprehensively. Parents can fill gaps by:

Going Deeper:

• If school covers Martin Luther King Jr., explore other civil rights leaders at home
• Research lesser-known figures who contributed to movements your child learned about
• Find primary sources like speeches, letters, and photographs to examine together

Providing Context:

• Help children understand the connection between historical events
• Explain how past events relate to present-day issues
• Show how Black history connects to your local community

Broadening Perspectives:

• Introduce Black figures from fields not covered in school
• Share stories of Black achievement from other countries and cultures
• Highlight contemporary Black leaders and changemakers

Advocating for Better Black History Education

If you notice gaps in your child’s education, consider respectful advocacy:

• Share resources with teachers that they might find helpful
• Volunteer to help with Black History Month programming
• Join parent-teacher organizations to discuss curriculum
• Donate diverse books to your school library

The Importance of Representation in Media and Toys

What children see around them shapes their understanding of the world. Representation matters in books, films, toys, and everyday media.

Why Representation Matters

Research shows that representation in media:

• Helps children of color see themselves in positive roles
• Expands all children’s understanding of who can be heroes, leaders, and experts
• Challenges stereotypes and broadens perspectives
• Builds empathy across racial lines

Auditing Your Home Environment

Take a look around your home and consider:

• Do the books on your shelves feature Black characters and authors?
• Do the dolls and action figures in your home reflect diversity?
• Do the films and shows your family watches include Black characters in varied roles?
• Do the posters, artwork, and decorations represent diverse people?

Making Intentional Choices

Small changes can make a big difference:

Books:

• Actively seek out books by Black authors
• Look for stories where Black characters are protagonists, not just sidekicks
• Include books where race is not the main plot point—just everyday life with Black characters

Toys:

• Purchase dolls and figures with diverse skin tones
• Look for board games and puzzles featuring diverse images
• Support Black toy designers and companies

Media:

• Watch shows with diverse casts together
• Discuss representation when you notice it (or its absence)
• Seek out documentaries and films about Black history and culture

Art:

• Display artwork by Black artists in your home
• Visit museums featuring African American art
• Encourage children to create art inspired by Black artists they learn about

Addressing Racism When Your Child Witnesses or Experiences It

Despite our best efforts, children may encounter racism in their daily lives. Preparing them to handle these situations is essential.

If Your Child Witnesses Racism

Step 1: Validate their feelings

• “I can see that bothered you. That was not okay.”
• “It makes sense that you feel upset. I would too.”

Step 2: Name what happened

• “What that person said was racist. Racism is when people treat others unfairly because of their skin color.”
• “That was prejudice. It’s when someone makes unfair judgments about a person based on how they look.”

Step 3: Discuss appropriate responses

• “If it is safe, we can speak up and say that’s not okay.”
• “We can support the person who was hurt by checking on them afterward.”
• “We can tell a trusted adult.”

Step 4: Process together

• Ask how your child is feeling
• Discuss what could be done differently next time
• Reinforce your family’s values

If Your Black Child Experiences Racism

This situation requires additional care and support:

Prioritize their emotional safety:

• Let them share their experience without interruption
• Validate their feelings completely
• Reassure them that what happened was not their fault

Empower them:

• Discuss strategies for responding to similar situations
• Role-play different scenarios
• Remind them of their worth and the pride you have in them

Provide community:

• Connect them with other Black children and adults who can relate
• Share stories of Black people who have overcome obstacles
• Ensure they have access to positive representations of Blackness

Take action when appropriate:

• Report incidents to school administrators or other authorities
• Advocate for your child
• Document what happened

Dr. Garica Sanford, a licensed psychologist at Momentous Institute, emphasizes that parents should make their “voice in the room.” Children need to hear from their parents about race, not just from peers, media, or school.

Moving Beyond February: Making Black History a Year-Round Practice

The most meaningful approach to Black History Month treats it as a launching point, not a destination. Here is how to integrate Black history into your family life throughout the year.

Monthly Themes and Opportunities

Consider these other observances that celebrate Black history and culture:

Creating Family Traditions

Establish ongoing practices that center Black history and culture:

• Monthly book club: Read one book by a Black author each month as a family
• Music exploration: Introduce a new Black artist or genre each week during dinner
• Sunday film series: Watch one film about Black history or by a Black director monthly
• Birthday celebrations: Honor notable Black figures on their birthdays throughout the year
• Local history walks: Visit historical sites related to Black history in your community

Building Diverse Relationships

Children learn best from real relationships with diverse people. Help your family build genuine connections:

• Choose diverse schools, activities, and neighborhoods when possible
• Attend community events that celebrate different cultures
• Support organizations that bring diverse communities together
• Model inclusive friendships in your own life

A Message to Different Types of Families

These conversations look different depending on your family’s background. Here is specific guidance for different families.

For Black Families

You likely already have conversations about race regularly. Black History Month offers additional opportunities to:

• Celebrate your family’s heritage with pride
• Share stories from your own family history
• Connect your children with community elders
• Ensure your children know the full breadth of Black achievement
• Prepare your children to navigate a world that may not always be fair to them

For White Families

You have an important role in raising anti-racist children. This month:

• Examine your own biases honestly
• Teach your children about white privilege in age-appropriate ways
• Ensure Black history is presented as American history, not something separate
• Model allyship through your actions
• Do not burden Black families with educating your children—do your own work

For Multiracial Families

Multiracial families navigate unique dynamics:

• Honor all parts of your child’s heritage
• Help children develop language to describe their identity
• Prepare children for questions they may receive about their background
• Connect with communities that support multiracial families
• Celebrate the richness of multiple cultural identities

For Immigrant Families

Families who have immigrated to the United States:

• Learn about Black American history as part of understanding your new country
• Find connections between Black American experiences and your own cultural history
• Teach children that learning about others’ experiences builds community
• Explore how Black history intersects with your own heritage

This guide was written for parents who want to do right by their children and by history. The conversations may not always be comfortable, but they are always worthwhile. Your voice matters. Your children are listening.

Remember the words of Carter G. Woodson: “Those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished lose the inspiration which comes from the teaching of biography and history.”

Let us ensure our children have that record—complete, honest, and full of inspiration.