8 Ways to Teach Your Kids About the Importance of Juneteenth

Little kids can get busy creating their own versions of the traditional Pan-African flag using pieces of green, red, and black construction paper or break out the magic markers. After they are done coloring, talk to them about what the flag stands for and how it symbolizes Black liberation in the United States.

Cooking and eating a meal together is a traditional part of any Juneteenth celebration. Historically, eating red foods is an important way to commemorate those who were enslaved. "The practice of eating red foods — red cake, barbecue, punch, and fruit — may owe its existence to the enslaved Yoruba and Kongo brought to Texas in the 19th century," writes culinary historian Michael Twitty in his blog Afroculinaria. "For both of these cultures the color red is the embodiment of spiritual power and transformation."

Children can learn about the significance of Juneteenth with this age-appropriate video from PBS. The video is a great way to open the door to an educational conversation — start by asking your little ones what they learned, talk to them about what you plan to do as a family this year and onward to support the Black community, and have them weigh in with their own ideas too.

A good way to make a conversation about the history of Juneteenth more engaging is to have it while your kids participate in a related activity, like coloring or word searches. Parents can download free Juneteenth-themed coloring pages on Primary Treasure Chest's website or buy themed word searches on sites like Teachers Pay Teachers and Kids Konnect. While they work or during their show and tell, you can encourage them to talk about what they've been learning.

The older set can explore the history behind Juneteenth in this animated video. Older kids may already be learning about Juneteenth in school, so it's a great opportunity to ask them how the contents of the video fits in with that they already know — and if they have any questions you can help answer.

After you educate your family on the history of Juneteenth, stop by a parade to witness and celebrate its significance. If you're not a person of color, be sure that you're listening, learning, observing, and enjoying the cultural holiday with respect and love.

Investing in local Black organizations or charities is a great way to teach your kids the importance of supporting and backing the Black community. A quick Google search will help you find those closest to you. And you can always donate to national orgs, like the NAACP or the National Black Justice Coalition, too. Get your kids involved, by encouraging them to be the ones to hit the "donate" button, or asking if they'd like to give a portion of their allowance to the same cause.