Martin Luther King Jr. fought for equality, committed his life to the service of others, and had a dream that all would be treated based on their character and not the color of their skin. As a high school teacher, I think about instilling these principles in my students on a daily basis. My dream is that I can help them navigate today’s societal pressures and somehow impact my student’s lives in a way that makes them better people; people who treat others the way they want to be treated.
However, as a mom to two young children, I struggle with how to start teaching my children about inclusivity and diversity in ways that they can understand. I believe sharing the story of Martin Luther King Jr. and his fight for and service to others is a great start! So here are 5 ways that you can help teach your children about Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy.
Read a Book
As an English teacher, I fully believe in the power and message that can be found in books. My Brother Martin by Christine King Farris is a biography full of pictures and written from the perspective of Martin Luther King Jr.’s sister. This is a great way to engage your children and help them learn what a great man Martin Luther King Jr. was!
https://www.amazon.com/My-Brother-Martin-Remembers-Growing/dp/0689843887
Free Museum Visit
Looking for a day trip? The Henry Ford Museum in Detroit is offering free admission on Martin Luther King Jr. day. According to the website, you can learn about Martin King Luther Jr.’s life as well as other civil rights leaders. You and your children will be able to see and sit in the bus Rosa Parks made her brave stand. Here is the website for more information:
https://www.thehenryford.org/current-events/calendar/martin-luther-king-day/
Watch a Video
Have you seen the Kid President videos from Soul Pancake?! They make my day! If you haven’t seen them, the young man who is Kid President is inspiring, encouraging, and uplifting for kids of all ages. He speaks about the life of Martin Luther King Jr. and is able to speak to kids about kindness and making a difference in a way that inspires kids of all ages!
https://www.freetobekids.com/blogs/news/kid-friendly-videos-about-martin-luther-king-jr
Activity teaching about Diversity
Crafting and the world of elementary activities is not one of my strengths. So when I want to be creative with my kids, Pinterest and other mom’s suggestions are great resources. For this activity, you only need two eggs: one brown and one white. Talk with your kids about how each student is different on the outside, however, as we crack each egg they are exactly the same! This is such a great activity that provides an amazing visual for what Martin Luther King Jr. preached throughout his life.
How else could we teach our kids about Martin Luther King Jr. Day? Comment below and let us know!
