Essential Black History Month Resources for Parents, Teachers & Nursery Practitioners

October marks the arrival of Black History Month, a wonderful time to celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Black individuals.

While diversity and representation should be embraced year-round, this month provides a valuable opportunity to introduce these important topics to young children, fostering their understanding, empathy, and respect for others from an early age.

By engaging with thoughtfully chosen resources, parents, teachers, and nursery practitioners can support children’s development by encouraging curiosity, open-mindedness, and a deeper appreciation of diversity.

To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of essential Black History Month resources that are perfect for use at home, in the classroom, or at nursery!

Guides

Before diving into activities, you might be wondering how to introduce Black History Month to your little ones.

Is there such a thing as "too young" when it comes to learning about such an important topic? And how do you make the conversation age-appropriate?

While we aren’t experts ourselves, we've found some fantastic resources to help guide you through these questions and get you started on this important journey.

Explore these linked guides for thoughtful, child-friendly approaches!

Yoopies – a parent’s guide to Black Lives Matter

CBeebies – Black History Month guide

Black History Month UK website – talking to children about race

Wellcome Collection - how to talk to children about race

Videos

Videos can be a wonderful way to introduce your child to the importance of Black History Month in an engaging, visual format.

The selections below from CBeebies offer age-appropriate content and a fantastic approach to teaching Black history, making it easy for children to learn and connect with the subject in a meaningful way.

Let's talk about Black History

Black History Month - Let's Talk About Hair

Black History Heroes

Princess K's Black History Heroes

Magic Hands: Black History Songs

Books

Children's books are an excellent way to explore representation and diversity through engaging stories.

They make complex topics more relatable and enjoyable for young minds.

We've compiled a list of top children's books by Black authors and illustrators that celebrate culture, history, and the joy of storytelling (via link below) and have also included a Book Trust guide!

The Butterfly Patch – 10 wonderful children’s books by black authors and illustrators

Book Trust – 10 must-read children’s books by black authors and illustrators chosen by Sharna Jackson

Activities

Play is one of the best ways for young children to learn! Engaging in hands-on activities helps immerse them in new concepts while having fun.

Black History Month provides a wonderful opportunity to introduce important lessons through creative and playful experiences.

Here are some top activity guides and resources to help your little one explore and celebrate Black history.

Teach Early Years - Exploring Africa for Black History Month in Early Years Settings

No time for flash cards – Black History Month preschool lesson plan

Kids Activities Blog – Black History Month activities for children

The Butterfly Patch – Black History Month inspired activities and recipes

Sainsbury's - Recipes to celebrate Black History Month

Little bins for little hands - Black History Month activities

Articles & more info

If you're eager to dive deeper into Black History Month or simply want to explore interesting articles and insights, we’ve got you covered!

Check out these great reads to expand your knowledge and learn more about how you can celebrate this important month.

BBC Newsround - Black History Month in Britain: Great women you should know about

BBC Newsround - Black History Month: The men who made history in Britain

Twinkl - Black History Month Paves the Way for Change, 365 Days a Year

The Butterfly Patch - 5 influential black men and women who shaped Britain

Black History Month – official website with resources and articles

My Bright Wheel - celebrate Black History Month with infants, toddlers and preschoolers

Mama Knows It All - Black History for Preschoolers

Black History Month is a fantastic opportunity to engage young children with meaningful lessons, activities, and stories that celebrate diversity and the achievements of Black individuals.

Whether through books, videos, or hands-on activities, each resource can help make this important topic accessible for little learners.

We hope these suggestions help you create meaningful experiences at home, in the classroom, or at nursery as we continue to highlight Black history, culture, and representation all year round!