As we approach another birthday of the late Martin Luther
King Jr., we are given the opportunity to teach our children about the hard
work, dedication, and eternal symbolism associated with this incredible
individual. He was a hero for civil rights, and an inspiration to us all as
human beings. Here are ten simple things you can teach your children about the
great Dr. King:
1. Beauty Comes in
Every Color
Above all, Martin Luther King, Jr. spent his life fighting
to achieve equality for everyone, no matter the color of their skin. Point out
to your children the beauty of individuals, regardless of their race, and how
everyone has the right to be treated equally.
2. Everyone Deserves
a Vote
Although your children may be too young to cast a ballot,
the probably understand the basic idea of having a vote for something they
want. Make sure to remind them of MLK’s struggle to given everyone this beautiful
right.
3. Violence Is
Unacceptable
While many of his contemporaries resorted to attacks, Martin
Luther King, Jr. was one of the only icons in United States history who eschewed
violence and instead only used his words.
4. The Truth Is
Important
During his time as a civil rights icon, Martin Luther King,
Jr. spent time pioneering the importance of truth and equality. Try to
incorporate this theme in learning activities for your kids.
5. We Need Peace
MLK’s ultimate goal is that peace would exist on Earth. A
simple kids history lesson about this topic can help them understand the
importance of this incredible notion.
6. Let’s Love Each
Other
Along with the ideas of peace and equality, Martin Luther
King, Jr. claimed that hate was too exhausting, and instead chose love as his emotion
of choice. Love should always be present in life, whether it is during,
playtime, kids learning activities, or just sitting around the house as a
family.
7. Have Faith in
Something
Whether it is in a higher power, a loved one, or your own
abilities, having faith in something is the best way for your children to
overcome their fears to become stronger individuals.
8. Accept Everyone!
MLK championed equality for individuals of every race and
skin color, but his efforts should also be applied to every individual we know.
Age, race, gender, physical abilities – none of these matter, as everyone
should be loved for who they are on the inside.
9. Responsibility is
Important
As he was working, Martin Luther King, Jr. also helped show
the world that in order to make it a better place, we must all take
responsibility for our actions. This is a great learning activity to use with
your children, as it will show them the importance of hard work and
perseverance.
10. Work Today for a
Better Tomorrow
Though MLK worked incessantly each day, he did so in hopes
of securing a better future for the people he loved. Make sure to teach your
children this idea with a strong learning activity, pointing out that sometimes
it is important to take action in order to help others down the road.
Have a Kids History
Lesson Today
January 20th marks another birthday of the late
Martin Luther King, Jr., one of the most influential civil rights activists the
country has ever seen. In order to commemorate this timeless event, make sure
to perform learning activities to teach your children about these ten wonderful
ideas MLK shared with the world.