By Turkessa Joo, Lead Teacher, FECC
Our Preschool class has been learning about African Americans who have shaped our nation’s history. We explored important figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Dr. Mae Jemison, and talked about kindness, fairness, and following our dreams. Some of the civil rights leaders, inventors, and artists we have been learning about are, Garrett A. Morgan, inventor of the traffic signal, Award Winning Artist Alma Thomas, Dr. Mae Jamison, and President Barack Obama!
There are many reasons why Black History is an important part of our curriculum year round:
1. Builds Early Awareness of Diversity
Young children notice differences in skin color, hair, and culture. Black History Month helps teachers positively introduce diversity, teaching children that differences are beautiful and important.
2. Encourages Inclusion and Kindness
Preschool is when children begin forming ideas about fairness. Sharing the stories of leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. helps children understand simple concepts like kindness, fairness, and standing up for others.
3. Promotes Positive Representation
Seeing books, pictures, and stories featuring important figures such as Activist Rosa Parks or Astronaut Mae Jemison helps Black children feel proud of who they are and shows all children that Black individuals have contributed greatly to history, science, art, and society.
4. Supports Social-Emotional Development
Reading diverse books and celebrating different cultures helps children develop empathy, respect, and confidence.
5. Creates a Foundation for Lifelong Learning
When conversations about history and diversity begin early, children grow up more open-minded and respectful of others.
