Juneteenth is a significant holiday in American history, marking the day when the last enslaved African Americans were finally freed on June 19, 1865. Teaching kids about Juneteenth not only helps them understand the importance of freedom and equality but also allows them to celebrate Black culture and heritage. Through engaging activities, children can learn about history in a meaningful way while having fun. At The Kids Point, we believe in making learning enjoyable, and here are some exciting ways for kids to celebrate Juneteenth.
The History of Juneteenth
Before diving into the activities, it’s essential to provide kids with some background on Juneteenth. On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all enslaved people in Confederate states were free. However, due to resistance from slave owners and lack of enforcement, many African Americans remained enslaved for over two years after the proclamation.
It wasn’t until June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, with federal troops to enforce the emancipation order. This day became known as Juneteenth, a blend of “June” and “nineteenth,” and has been celebrated ever since as a day of freedom, resilience, and cultural pride.
Now, let’s explore some fun and educational activities to celebrate this important day with kids!
Read Books About Juneteenth
Books are a fantastic way to introduce kids to the history and significance of Juneteenth. Here are some excellent choices:
- “Juneteenth for Mazie” by Floyd Cooper – A heartfelt story about a young girl learning about Juneteenth from her father.
- “All Different Now: Juneteenth, the First Day of Freedom” by Angela Johnson – A beautifully illustrated picture book that describes the first Juneteenth.
- “The Story of Juneteenth: An Interactive History Adventure” by Steven Otfinoski – A choose-your-own-adventure book that allows kids to experience history firsthand.
Encourage children to discuss these stories and share what they’ve learned about Juneteenth.
Make a Juneteenth-Inspired Feast
Food plays a significant role in Juneteenth celebrations. Many traditional dishes include red foods, symbolizing strength and resilience. Here are some kid-friendly Juneteenth recipes:
- Red Velvet Cupcakes – A delicious and easy-to-make dessert that represents the color of sacrifice and strength.
- Watermelon and Strawberry Salad – A refreshing summer dish that kids can help prepare.
- Barbecue Sliders – A staple in many Juneteenth cookouts.
Involve children in the cooking process, teaching them about the cultural significance of the food while enjoying a delicious meal together.
Create Juneteenth Arts and Crafts
Arts and crafts are a wonderful way for kids to engage with history creatively. Here are some craft ideas:
- Pan-African Flag Painting – The Pan-African flag consists of red, black, and green stripes. Kids can paint or color their own flag while learning about its significance.
- Juneteenth Paper Chains – Make paper chains using red, black, and green paper. Each link can have an inspiring word related to freedom and equality.
- Handprint Freedom Art – Have kids dip their hands in red, black, and green paint and create handprint artwork symbolizing unity and freedom.
Watch Juneteenth-Themed Movies and Shows
Visual storytelling is a great way to help kids connect with history. Consider watching these family-friendly Juneteenth-related movies and shows:
- “Black-Ish: Juneteenth” (Season 4, Episode 1) – A fun and educational episode that explains the holiday in an engaging way.
- “Juneteenth Jamboree” (PBS) – A short documentary that highlights the meaning of Juneteenth and past celebrations.
- “Miss Juneteenth” – A movie that explores the cultural significance of Juneteenth through a mother and daughter’s journey.
After watching, have a discussion with kids about what they learned and how they feel about the holiday.
Organize a Juneteenth Storytelling Session
Storytelling is a powerful tool for preserving history. Invite elders from the community or family members to share personal stories or historical accounts about Juneteenth. If possible, record these stories so they can be preserved and shared with future generations.
If live storytelling isn’t an option, consider reading historical accounts or folktales from African American culture. Encourage kids to ask questions and reflect on the importance of remembering history.
Play Juneteenth-Themed Games
Make learning fun with games that celebrate Juneteenth!
- Juneteenth Trivia – Prepare trivia questions about the history of Juneteenth and its cultural significance.
- Scavenger Hunt – Create a Juneteenth-themed scavenger hunt with clues related to African American history.
- Freedom Walk – Set up a path where kids follow clues that teach them about key moments in African American history, leading to the “freedom” finish line.
Support Black-Owned Businesses
One of the best ways to celebrate Juneteenth is by supporting Black entrepreneurs. Take your kids to a local Black-owned bookstore, restaurant, or clothing shop. This teaches children the importance of economic empowerment and community support.
Encourage them to write thank-you notes to business owners, fostering appreciation and respect for diverse contributions.
Participate in a Juneteenth Parade or Festival
Many communities host parades and festivals to celebrate Juneteenth. Look for local events where kids can participate in:
- Face painting
- Dance performances
- Music and cultural showcases
Attending these events helps kids experience the joy and unity of the holiday while learning about African American heritage.
Do a Service Project
Teach kids about giving back by organizing a service project in honor of Juneteenth. Ideas include:
- Donating books to schools or libraries focusing on Black history.
- Volunteering at a community center.
- Writing letters of appreciation to civil rights leaders and educators.
Acts of service help children understand that Juneteenth is not just about celebration but also about uplifting communities.
Reflect and Discuss
Encourage children to reflect on what they’ve learned by writing or drawing about their Juneteenth experience. Ask them questions like:
- What does freedom mean to you?
- Why is it important to remember Juneteenth?
- How can we continue to celebrate and honor African American history every day?
Creating a Juneteenth journal or time capsule can be a fun way to preserve their thoughts and revisit them in the future.
Juneteenth is a time to celebrate freedom, educate the next generation, and honor the struggles and triumphs of African Americans throughout history. Through engaging activities like storytelling, crafts, cooking, and community involvement, children can develop a deeper appreciation for this important holiday. At The Kids Point, we believe in fostering inclusive learning experiences that make history meaningful and fun. By participating in these activities, kids can celebrate Juneteenth in a way that is both joyful and educational.