Juneteenth (Freedom Day) is on June 19th. Early childhood may seem too soon to discuss concepts such as racism and freedom. However, early childhood is the time when children form their identities and construct their attitudes towards people different from themselves. Early childhood educators can use literacy lessons to support children’s understanding of complex issues. Think of these as an opportunity to begin conversations about race, slavery, history, culture, and freedom that children will continue to have in school for years to come.
Here are a few book titles to consider using when talking with young children about Juneteenth:
You can use these and other titles to start conversations with children using open-ended questions such as:
- What do you think about this story?
- How does this story make you feel?
- What else would you like to know?
Likewise, you can use such books to inspire artwork like drawing pictures, making paintings, creating signs, writing stories. Consider prompts such as:
- Who/What was important about the story to you?
- What would it look like if everyone was happy?
- What is something you want to change in the world, your classroom, etc.?
- How can you help other people?
Here is a resource from EmbraceRace (https://www.embracerace.org/ )for teaching and talking with children about race:
Talking with Children About Race_English
Talking with Childeren About Race_Spanish
and check out their webinar! https://www.embracerace.org/resources/teaching-and-learning-about-race-fantastic-practice-in-early-childhood
Lynne Hall holds a Master of Science in Education and an Indiana instructional teaching license (Early Childhood Education and Services; Elementary/Primary Generalist; Elementary/Intermediate Generalist). She formerly taught preschool in a variety of settings for over 15 years. Her expertise includes early literacy instruction, equity in early childhood education, and inclusive classroom practices.
Email her at hallma@iu.edu
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