How to Discuss and Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. with your Child

Jan 13

As MLK Day approaches, we're here to guide you in introducing your little ones to the impactful life of Martin Luther King Jr.. Join us as we explore age-appropriate activities and strategies to instill the values of equality, justice, and love in the hearts of our young learners!

Understanding MLK's Profound Legacy

Let's start by exploring the extraordinary life of Martin Luther King Jr. Born on January 15, 1929, in Atlanta, Georgia, MLK emerged as a prominent leader in the American Civil Rights Movement during the 1950s and 1960s. His commitment to nonviolent protest, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, became a cornerstone of his activism.

Dr. King's leadership was instrumental in landmark events like the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington, where he delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech in 1963. The speech, a powerful call for racial equality and justice, resonates as a timeless beacon of hope.

Beyond his public persona, MLK was a husband, father, and pastor, bringing a deeply personal dimension to his advocacy. His tireless efforts ultimately led to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Three Ways to Talk with Your Child about Martin Luther King Jr.

Read Children’s Books

Introduce MLK to your children through captivating storytelling. Opt for age-appropriate books that narrate the life and achievements of Martin Luther King Jr. This approach allows your kids to connect with history on a personal level, turning a significant figure into a relatable hero. After the story, encourage questions and reflections to gauge their understanding and curiosity. Some of our favorites are:

**Who Was Martin Luther King, Jr.?** Lisbeth Kaiser

**Let the Children March** by Monica Clark-Robinson

I Have a Dream by Martin Luther King Jr. + Kadir Nelson — **I Have a Dream**
by Martin Luther King Jr. + Kadir Nelson

2. Creative Expression

Encourage your little artists to express their thoughts and feelings about MLK through creative projects. Whether it's drawing, painting, or crafting a dream board, provide them with materials to illustrate what equality, empathy, and kindness mean to them. This hands-on approach transforms MLK's teachings into tangible expressions, making the learning experience both memorable and enjoyable.

3. Everyday Heroes

Relate MLK's values to everyday situations, turning him into a symbol of heroism in your child's world. Discuss concepts like fairness, empathy, and standing up against injustice using simple and relatable examples. This helps kids understand the relevance of MLK's teachings in their daily lives.

Bonus Activity: Greeting People with Peace in your Heart: a Loving Kindness Exercise

What to do:

Sit mindfully, with your spine straight and body relaxed.
Hold your hand over your heart, and repeat to yourself: May I be happy. May I be safe. May I be peaceful. May I be kind.
Now think of a friend or a family member. Repeat to yourself: May I be happy. May I be safe. May I be peaceful. May I be kind.
Now imagine people you don't know yet. Repeat to yourself: May I be happy. May I be safe. May I be peaceful. May I be kind.
Continue your day knowing that everyone wants to be happy, just like you do.

Conclusion

As we celebrate MLK Day, let's remember the profound impact of Martin Luther King Jr.'s life. By sharing his story and instilling his principles, we aim to nurture a generation that embraces diversity, seeks justice, and lives with the profound love that MLK envisioned. Here's to fostering understanding, kindness, and a brighter future together!