We teach our kids important lessons everyday. My kids learned about Santa and the Easter Bunny at an early age. But I find it odd that they aren’t taught about important historical figures like Martin Luther King, Jr. at daycare.
I have asked teachers in previous years if they plan on honoring him, and I was met with a surprised look. Most recently, I came across a notice at the front desk that read Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, and got excited about the kids celebrating the special day.
I later found out that it was an open invitation for kids who were off from elementary school to spend the day there. I went as far as speaking to Princess’s teacher about plans for the holiday. She hesitated and responded that she’d planned on it, but was still working on a lesson plan.
I totally understand that these kids are young. But, are they too young to know who Martin Luther King, Jr. was? Are they too young to know that there was a time when black people were only allowed to sit in the back of the bus, use separate bathrooms, and eat at different restaurants? I’ll admit that those specific details aren’t age appropriate for three-month-olds. But, there’s nothing wrong with discussing it with four-year-olds.
I can’t speak for all parents, but I want my kids to know the truth. I want them to know who Martin Luther King, Jr. was and the message he delivered.
My hubby and I spoke with Princess about it all. “A long time ago black and white people weren’t allowed to be friends with each other. Martin Luther King, Jr. helped change that,” her Dad said.
Princess was shocked to learn that there was a time when mixed marriages weren’t allowed, and black and white kids weren’t able to attend the same school. If it weren’t for people like Martin Luther King, Jr., our kids probably wouldn’t be alive!
I decided to combine our in depth discussion with a fun project to really drive home Dr. King’s message.
We borrowed from the paper chains theme – incorporating people of different colors. But, Princess added a twist to her craft. We cut out hand shapes and glued them to construction paper. Then she made some fun Play-doh shapes to add to the collage.
As I did with her goals for the New Year, I recorded Princess doing the exercise. Documenting it provides a nice keepsake for her to hang on to and look back at years from now. Here’s the abridged version of our chat.
It’s never too early to teach kids about Martin Luther King, Jr. Young O is only 17-months-old. I don’t expect his teacher to break out with an tense lecture about racism, but the kids his age can do fun crafts, and teachers can read books about Dr. King during story time – that’s what we plan on doing at home.
When should kids begin learning about Martin Luther King Jr.? How do you honor Martin Luther King Jr. with your kids?