Black History Month is a meaningful time to honor and celebrate the achievements, history, and culture of Black individuals who have shaped our world. One powerful way to help kids understand these stories is through hands-on activities that spark curiosity and open the door to important conversations.
Crafts make learning feel approachable and engaging. As children create, they naturally ask questions, explore new ideas, and connect with the people and traditions behind what they’re making. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, these activities offer a simple and interactive way to talk about diversity, equality, resilience, and the importance of dreaming big.
From art projects inspired by influential leaders to crafts that celebrate culture and creativity, these Black History Month crafts go beyond fun—they help children build understanding, empathy, and a deeper connection to history.
What is Black History Month?
Black History Month is an annual celebration of accomplishments by Americans, Canadians and British people of African decent. It is also an opportunity to acknowledge their contributions in the history of Canada, United States and the UK.
Black History Month was first started in the United States where it is also known as African American History Month. Its origins started with “Negro History Week,” first coined by historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans. These historians started this week in 1915, in response to the lack of information on the accomplishments of Black people available to the public.
Black History Month became official in 1976 and since then every president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries such as Canada and the United Kingdom, have also officially designated February and October respectively as a month to celebrating Black history. February was recognized in Canada in 1995 and October in the UK in 1987.
FAQ About Black History Month Crafts & Activities for Kids
1. Why do we celebrate Black History Month?
Black History Month was created to bring attention on the contributions of people of African heritage to the United States, Canada and the UK. It honors all Black people from all periods of history, from the enslaved people first brought over from Africa in the early 17th century to people of African decent living in the United States, Canada and the UK today.
This year I am so excited to share with you all the new Black History Month crafts we are doing. We made crafts for Rosa Parks using paper plates, we used toilet paper rolls to make craft for MLK and Ruby Bridges and Harriet Tubman. We also created a solidarity sticky wall and many more.
2. What are easy Black History Month crafts for kids?
Easy Black History Month crafts include simple art projects inspired by influential Black leaders and artists, paper crafts, coloring pages, and hands-on activities that introduce history in age-appropriate ways. Look for low-prep projects that use basic supplies like paper, paint, and markers.
3. How do you teach toddlers about Black History Month?
Toddlers learn best through play and conversation. Simple crafts, picture books, and short discussions about kindness, fairness, creativity, and leadership are meaningful starting points. Focus on celebrating achievements and introducing important figures in ways that feel positive and accessible.
4. What are some preschool Black History Month activities?
Preschool-friendly activities include Q-tip painting templates, collage art inspired by famous artists, sensory bins with cultural themes, and read-aloud extensions. Activities that involve painting, cutting, and gluing help build fine motor skills while supporting early learning.
5. Why are crafts important during Black History Month?
Crafts give children a hands-on way to connect with history. Creating art inspired by influential figures helps kids remember names, contributions, and stories more deeply than passive learning alone.
6. Can Black History Month crafts be used in classrooms?
Yes. Many Black History Month crafts work well in classroom settings because they are easy to prep, adaptable for different ages, and encourage meaningful discussion. Teachers can pair crafts with short biographies or storybooks for added learning.
Black History Month isn’t just about learning history—it’s about understanding how Black history is part of American history. These art projects can be a powerful entry point into discussions about important figures, cultural traditions, and historical events.
- Pair art with books – Read about artists, leaders, and events before starting a project.
- Focus on Black artists – Explore the styles of Jean-Michel Basquiat, Alma Thomas, Romare Bearden, and more!
- Encourage storytelling – Many Black artists use art to tell a story—ask kids what their artwork represents.
- Highlight achievements in all areas – Art is a great way to celebrate Black history, but don’t stop there! Discuss Black contributions to science, literature, music, and more.
7. What supplies do I need for Black History Month crafts?
Most projects use common classroom or home supplies such as construction paper, paint, glue, markers, scissors, and printable templates. Keeping materials simple makes activities more accessible and inclusive.
Black History Month Crafts for Kids
1. Black History Month Handprint Crafts
Black History Month Handprint Crafts offer a personal touch to learning, as children use their hands to create art that reflects the achievements and stories of Black heroes. This activity fosters a deep, personal connection with history through the power of creative expression.
2. Black History Month Coloring Pages
Celebrate Black History Month and spark creativity in your kids with our specially designed coloring pages, each honoring the legacy and achievements of African American heroes.
3. Black History Month Toilet Paper Roll Crafts
Dive into Black History Month with our creative toilet paper roll crafts, celebrating the rich heritage and monumental achievements of Black leaders and innovators. A fun, educational craft that brings history to life for kids of all ages!
4. Alma Thomas Art Project
Get ready to splash your creativity across the canvas with our Alma Thomas Art Project, where colors and patterns come to life in a celebration of this trailblazing artist’s vibrant legacy.
5. Rosa Parks Rocking Bus Craft
Board the bus to history with our Rosa Parks Rocking Bus Craft, using a paper plate to celebrate the courage of an icon. It’s a creative way for kids to learn about and honor the woman who bravely refused to give up her seat, rocking the foundations of equality.
6. Dr. Mae Jemison Starry Night Craft
Reach for the stars with our Dr. Mae Jemison Starry Night Craft. Inspired by the first African American woman in space, this craft encourages kids to dream big and aim high.
7. Clementine Hunter Inspired Art Project
Inspired by her stunning Zinnias paintings this Clementine Hunter art project is exactly what you need! This activity uses washable paint, white cardstock, and a simple paintbrush—making it perfect for kids of all ages.
8. George Washington Carver Paper Plate Peanut Craft
Explore the genius of George Washington Carver with our Paper Plate Peanut Craft! Celebrate this incredible scientist’s contributions to agriculture and his innovative work with peanuts, inspiring kids to learn through creativity.
9. Charles Mcgee Inspired Art Project
This Charles McGee-inspired art project, based on his 2008 masterpiece Rhapsody in Black and White, is the perfect mix of creativity and learning. Using just paper, markers, scissors, and glue, kids will create their own 3D paper sculptures that celebrate patterns, shapes, and movement—all key themes in McGee’s work.
10. Paper Strip Heroes Craft
Paper Strip Heroes Craft, a simple yet impactful activity that allows kids to create colorful art pieces featuring heroes from Black history.
11. Reggie Laurent Inspired Abstract Art Project
This Reggie Laurent-inspired abstract art project is perfect for kids of all ages. It combines organic and geometric shapes, bright colors with total creative freedom!
12. Dr. Mae Jemison Rocket Ship Craft
The Dr. Mae Jemison Rocket Ship Craft catapults young minds into the realm of science and space exploration, celebrating the achievements of an incredible astronaut and scientist. It’s a stellar project that combines learning with the thrill of space adventure.
13. Romare Bearden Inspired Art Project
This Romare Bearden-inspired art project is a fun and creative art project that also helps kids learn about history and culture! A colorful collage, using bleeding tissue paper and images of musicians! Perfect for little artists who love to cut, glue, and create.
14. Faith Ringgold Inspired Art Project
Let’s talk about bold colors, storytelling, and powerful artwork—because today, we’re creating a fun project that is inspired by the art of Faith Ringgold!
15. Lois Mailou Jones Inspired Art Project
Whether you’re celebrating Black History Month, learning about influential artists, or just looking for an engaging creative activity, this Lois Mailou Jones inspired art project is super easy to set up and full of artistic exploration.
16. Jacob Lawrence Inspired Art Project
This Jacob Lawrence-inspired art project is a great way to introduce kids to an incredible artist while exploring color, movement, and collage creation.
17. Jean-Michel Basquiat Self- Portrait Art Project
This Easy Jean-Michel Basquiat Self-Portrait Art Project is a fun and engaging way for kids to create their own expressive self-portraits using oil pastels and watercolor paints.
18. Salt Painted African Masks
Salt painted African masks are not just a fun art project; they’re a vibrant exploration of tradition and history.
19. Light Bulb Craft
Shine a light on innovation with our Light Bulb Craft, inspired by the genius of Lewis Latimer. This craft not only brightens up the room but also celebrates the bright mind behind improved electric light.
20. Foil Printed Black History Hero Craft
Bring the faces of history to your fingertips with our Foil Printed Black History Hero Craft. It’s a unique way to learn about and honor the heroes who shaped our world, one foil print at a time.
21. Cotton Ball Painted Heart Craft
Express love and unity through our Cotton Ball Painted Heart Craft, a tactile and engaging way for kids to celebrate Black History Month with every dab and press.
22. Paper Clock Craft
Tick-tock, it’s time to celebrate history with our Paper Clock Craft! This hands-on project not only teaches kids about time but also about the significant moments and figures in Black history.
23. Shaving Cream Hearts Mobile
Float into a cloud of dreams and diversity with our Shaving Cream Hearts Mobile, a fun and fluffy craft that adds a touch of love and lightness to any space.
24. Black Glue Trump Craft
Create bold lines and striking silhouettes with our Black Glue Trump Craft, a unique way to explore art techniques while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of jazz music.
25. Black Invention Collage Craft
Inventiveness comes to life in our Black Invention Collage Craft, where kids piece together the stories and contributions of African American inventors that have changed the world.
26. Paper Plate Baseball Lacing
Black History Month is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of African Americans to U.S. history. One notable figure who stands out, especially in the world of sports, is Jackie Robinson.
27. ‘We Thank You” Rosa Parks bus Craft
Honoring Rosa Parks with our ‘We Thank You’ bus craft, using tissue paper and paper plates to celebrate the courage that changed history. A creative tribute to the Mother of the Freedom Movement, reminding us all of the power of standing up for what’s right.
28. Harriet Tubman Lantern Sun Catcher Craft
Shine light on courage and freedom with our Harriet Tubman Lantern Sun Catcher Craft. Celebrate the legacy of a true American hero who led many to freedom, lighting the way just as these lanterns will light up your window.
29. Handprint Dove Craft for MLK Jr.
Creating peace one handprint at a time with our Handprint Dove Craft, in honor of MLK Jr.’s vision of harmony and understanding. Inspire little ones to spread wings of peace and kindness in tribute to a timeless dream.
30. Paper Plate Peace Craft for MLK Jr.
Channeling the spirit of MLK Jr. with our Paper Plate Peace Craft, reminding us that peace begins with a smile and an open heart. Craft a vision of harmony and understanding, just as Martin Luther King Jr. envisioned for us all.
31. Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Suncatcher Craft
Shine a light on innovation with our Garrett Morgan Traffic Light Suncatcher Craft, celebrating the inventor of the three-position traffic signal. Let your windows catch the colors of history and ingenuity, illuminating young minds about groundbreaking contributions in Black History.
32. Cardboard Guitar Craft inspired by Sister Rosetta Tharpe
Strumming into history with our Cardboard Guitar Craft, inspired by the legendary Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the Godmother of Rock and Roll. Let’s celebrate her groundbreaking legacy by creating our own musical masterpieces.
33. Potato Chip Craft Inspired By George Crum
Dive into creativity with our Potato Chip Craft, inspired by the inventive George Crum, who blessed us with the delicious snack we all love today! Celebrate innovation and history as we crunch into crafting fun, one chip at a time.
34. DIY Book Craft inspired by Maya Angelou
Channel the wisdom of Maya Angelou with our DIY Book Craft, turning pages into a tribute to her enduring words. Let’s inspire the next generation with creativity that speaks volumes.
35. Harriet Tubman Lantern Craft
Illuminate the path to freedom with our Harriet Tubman Lantern Craft, turning a simple cardboard box into a beacon of hope and courage. Let’s craft together and remember the enduring spirit of a remarkable woman who led many to freedom.
36. Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Rice Craft
Light up learning with our Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Rice Craft! Celebrate the ingenious mind behind the traffic light by layering red, yellow, and green rice, paying tribute to a pivotal Black inventor in a fun, tactile way.
37. ‘I Have A Dream’ Pop-up Card Craft for MLK Jr.
Bring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic ‘I Have A Dream’ speech to life with our pop-up card craft, a creative way for kids to engage with history and dream big. Celebrate MLK Jr. Day by crafting a message of hope and equality that pops right off the page!
38. ‘I Have A Dream’ Sticky Wall for MLK Jr.
Bringing Dr. King’s dream to life with our ‘I Have A Dream’ Sticky Wall, a creative space for kids to share their visions for a better world. Let’s inspire the next generation to dream big and work towards equality and peace, one sticky note at a time
39. Diversity Fingerprint MLK Jr. Craft w/ free Printable
Create a masterpiece of unity with our Diversity Fingerprint MLK Jr. Craft, featuring a free printable to celebrate the beautiful message of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Each fingerprint represents the unique touch of diversity, coming together to honor MLK’s dream of togetherness and equality.
40. Stronger Together Handprint Craft for MLK Jr. Day w/ Free Printable
Join hands in unity with our Stronger Together Handprint Craft for MLK Jr. Day. Grab our free printable and let’s create a colorful symbol of togetherness and strength, honoring Dr. King’s dream.
41. Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Cotton Pad Craft
Discover the genius of Garrett Morgan with our Traffic Stoplight Cotton Pad Craft, celebrating the inventor of the traffic signal that keeps us safe on the roads every day. Combine history and creativity, paying tribute to a remarkable innovation that changed the world!
42. Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Cupcake Liner Craft
Celebrate innovation and history with our Garrett Morgan Traffic Light Cupcake Liner Craft, a tasty tribute to the inventor of the modern traffic signal. Inspire young minds with creativity and a slice of history, one delicious craft at a time!
43. Unity Rings Craft
Bringing hands together with our Unity Rings Craft to symbolize the strength and beauty of togetherness. A simple, yet powerful reminder that we are stronger united.
44. Cardboard Crown Craft inspired by Jean-Michel Basquiat
Crafting a cardboard crown inspired by Jean-Michel Basquiat not only introduces children to a pivotal figure in art but also encourages them to see themselves as creators with unique voices. This project blends art history with the empowering message of self-expression and identity.
45. Paper Plate Self Portraits inspired by Madam C.J. Walker
Madam C.J. Walker’s pioneering spirit and success are celebrated through paper plate self-portraits, allowing kids to explore their own identities and aspirations. It’s a fun and reflective activity that pays homage to Walker’s legacy in entrepreneurship and self-confidence.
46. Paper Bag Backpack Craft inspired by Ruby Bridges
The paper bag backpack craft inspired by Ruby Bridges teaches children about courage and resilience in the face of adversity, as they create something functional and symbolic. It serves as a tangible reminder of Ruby’s strength and the importance of education for all.
47. Cardboard Tube Microphone Craft inspired by Billie Holiday
Sing along to the history of jazz and blues with a cardboard tube microphone craft that celebrates the iconic Billie Holiday. Kids can craft their own microphones, fostering an appreciation for Holiday’s contribution to music and the power of voice.
48. Suncatcher Collage Craft Inspired by Alma Thomas
Inspired by the vibrant works of Alma Thomas, the suncatcher collage craft brightens any window while teaching kids about color, light, and the beauty of abstract art. This craft is a colorful exploration of Thomas’s innovative use of color and form.
49. Bubble Wrap Hair Craft Inspired By Lorna Simpson
The Bubble Wrap Hair Craft inspired by Lorna Simpson allows children to experiment with texture and form, celebrating diversity in hairstyles and the uniqueness of every individual. It’s a wonderful way to introduce discussions on identity and self-love through art.
50. Nebular Painting Craft Inspired by Neil deGrasse Tyson
Dive into the wonders of the cosmos with a Nebular Painting Craft inspired by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, sparking curiosity about the universe and our place within it. This craft encourages kids to dream big and explore the mysteries of space through art.
51. Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Handprint Craft
The Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Handprint Craft combines history with creativity, teaching kids about Morgan’s life-saving invention while using their own handprints. It’s a playful way to learn about innovation and safety.
52. Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Toilet Paper Roll Craft
Transform a simple toilet paper roll into a symbol of innovation with the Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Craft, educating kids on the impact of Morgan’s invention on daily life. It’s an engaging way to combine crafting with lessons on problem-solving and inventiveness.
Black History Month Activities for Kids
53. Diversity Sensory Bin
Diversity Beans: Anti-Racism Sensory Bin is a fun way to start the conversation of race with your toddler or preschoolers! Remember it is never too early to talk about racism, toddlers and preschoolers understand fairness and are keenly aware of differences very early on.
54. Garret Morgan Traffic Stoplight Sensory Bin
Explore history and play at the same time with our Garrett Morgan Traffic Light Sensory Bin! Using beans and colored buttons, kids can dive into the world of this brilliant inventor and the mind behind the traffic light. It’s a tactile, engaging way to celebrate Black History Month and learn about Garrett Morgan’s life-changing invention. Perfect for little hands to discover, sort, and play, all while paying tribute to a historic figure.
55. Giant Black History Month Word Search
Dive into the rich tapestry of Black History Month with our Giant Word Search! Challenge your brain while celebrating the heroes and milestones that have shaped history
More Anti-Racism, Diversity and Black History Month Activities
- Diversity Crafts for Kids
- Awesome Martin Luther King Jr. Day Crafts & Activities for Kids
- 30+ Anti-Racism Activities for Kids
- The Best Anti-Racism Toys for Kids
- 10+ Fun & Easy Juneteenth Crafts and Activities for Kids
Play2Learn Toddler & Preschool Programs for Curious Toddlers
There is no limit to your toddler’s energy and curiosity. That energy and curiosity although a joy can be challenging at times. Their interest in just about everything around them is what makes them great learners. One and two year olds can soak up so much just from their senses!
But as a teacher or parent that thirst for learning can be exhausting. That is why I created this toddler and preschooler program. To help you get the most out of this time with your curious toddler without having to come up with creative ways to play and interact with them.
Play2Learn for Toddlers includes 20 Units for toddlers. Each 2-week toddler unit has 20 super easy to set up and engaging activities for toddlers 18 months to 3 years.
Play2Learn Preschool which includes 20 Units for preschoolers. Each 2-week preschoolers unit has 20 unique and easy to set up and engaging activities for preschoolers 3 years to 5 years. That’s over 800 learning activities for your toddler and preschooler at your fingertips! So many ideas you and your child will never be bored again!
These toddler and preschool lesson plans and activities will definitely keep you and your toddler and preschooler busy playing and learning!
Click here for more information: Play2Learn
Book: Exciting Sensory Bins for Curious Kids
Did you know I wrote a book of sensory bins? Click here for more information Exciting Sensory Bin for Curious Kids. Or grab your copy at Amazon.
Boring afternoons are made exciting with awesome animal-based bins, like Salty Shark Bay or Yarn Farm. Pretend play bins like Birthday Cake Sensory Play or Bubble Tea Party encourage creativity and imagination. And your kids will have so much fun they won’t even know they’re getting smarter with STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) activities like Sink or Float Soup, Magnetic Letter Hunt or Ice Cream Scoop and Count.
Designed for toddlers 18 months and up.
Book: Super STEAM Activity Book for Kids
Learning all about science, technology, engineering, art, and math sets kids up for scholastic success―and it can be so much fun! Watch kids enjoy building STEAM skills as they color friendly fish, help water find its way to tree roots, solve math problems with mazes, and more.
Find out more and grab your copy here.
Designed for preschoolers 3 years old and up.
Book: Big Book of Riddles for Kids
Riddle me this: What’s an exciting way to practice critical thinking while having a blast? The Big Riddle Book for Kids, of course! From hilarious puns to tough brain teasers, kids can build problem-solving skills with hundreds of riddles tha. t show them how to think outside the box.
- 350 riddles for kids—Have hours of fun with riddles, puns and jokes, and math and logic puzzles that’ll get their wheels turning!
- Level up their skills—Riddles get trickier as kids progress through the book, challenging them as they get better at solving puzzles!
- Double-check their work—Kids can check their answers in the back of the book with a handy answer key.
Help children expand their minds while having fun with this puzzle book for kids!
Designed for kids ages 6 years old and up.
TV Show: Curious Crafting
I’m so excited to share my crafting TV show Curious Crafting which launched in July 2022 on TVOkids and TVOkids YouTube! Season 2 aired in August 2023! My show was also nominated in 2023 for Best Live Action Preschool Series by the Youth Media Alliance Awards of Excellence.
Curious Crafting Season 1 is also now airing in Australia on ABC! Watch it here!
Set in the ultimate crafting space, Curious Crafting is a short form pre-school age series about the joy of making crafts. I lead a rotating cast of adorable little preschoolers (including my own) making magic out of common household objects.
In each episode we transform recycled items into magical crafts like a milk carton school bus, paper bag puppet or cotton pad turtle. The crafters learn and laugh their way through each activity while demonstrating what their young imaginations can create.
Curious Crafting shares the adventure and joy of making art with takeaway lessons for creating crafts at home.
This show designed for toddlers and preschoolers 2.5 years old and up.
