Martin Luther King Day is celebrated the third Monday in January each year. Some schools are closed but others remain open. Whether it's on the official day or during one of the weeks before the holiday, the influential American civil rights leader can be your inspiration for a fun, educational preschool curriculum.
You're probably thinking civil rights are a pretty dense topic for preschoolers. You're right — a deep dive into American history should be saved for when they're older. However, you can choose other activities that embrace the ideals of the civil rights movement and introduce the man who made such an impact for change.
Break out the books!
First, consider reading age-appropriate books about Martin Luther King Jr. and his fight for equality. Scholastic Books offers some great recommendations for youngsters that you could check out of your local library or add to your classroom collection. For example, The Story of Martin Luther King Jr. by Johnny Ray Moore is ideal for teaching 3- to 4-year-olds about Dr. King.
Circle time sharing
Circle time is ideal for introducing new concepts and encouraging group discussion. Use this time to talk about Martin Luther King Jr. and how he dedicated his life to making sure everyone was treated equally. Ultimately he wanted peace and is considered a hero by many, which is why he is honored with his own special day. Do preschoolers know what the word peace means? Would they like to share someone who is a hero in their life?
I have a dream: Craft edition
Cut cloud shapes out of white construction paper. Then, ask each child a simple question: What could be done to help everyone be friends? Some answers could include concepts of sharing, helping each other and following rules. You'll be surprised how creative youngsters can get! Then write down each student's answer along with their name on the paper. Finally, let the kids glue cotton balls on the edges to create "dream clouds." Display proudly in the classroom!
Themed music time
Some of preschoolers' favorite tunes can be transformed into songs that embrace the important messages of Martin Luther King Jr. Here are a few excellent examples from Preschool Plan It:
You Are a Hero! sung to "You Are My Sunshine"
You are a hero to many people
Of your dream for peace, we love to sing
You said we should be kind to each other
Your name is Martin Luther King
Martin Luther King Had a Dream sung to If You're Happy and You Know It
Martin Luther King had a dream, yes he did
Martin Luther King had a dream, yes he did
He dreamed we'd live as brothers
Having love for one another
And his dream is still alive through you and me ... you and me!
Bottom line: Have fun celebrating with your students! Kindness, caring and sharing are all important concepts at preschool, and they align perfectly with the important messages that Dr. King wanted us all to hear.
Martin Luther King Day is celebrated the third Monday in January each year. Whether it's on the official day or during one of the weeks before the holiday, the influential American civil rights leader can be your inspiration for a fun