Celebrate Black History Month through Read Aloud

My name is Jade Jackson, and I am the Learning Support Specialist for Literacy. I work one-on-one with students to support their progression in reading through explicit instruction on phonics, phonological awareness, vocabulary, and comprehension. Reading aloud is part of every session with my students. They have an opportunity to choose from rich text and listen to me model fluent reading, highlight new vocabulary, and ask questions about what we’re reading. 

As we move into February, I am thrilled to incorporate some of my favorite books about black leaders in history to celebrate Black History Month! It is critical to acknowledge black voices through literature with our students regularly. What better time than during a month that celebrates black achievement and contribution to U.S. history? So many children’s books speak to black excellence teach valuable life lessons and useful vocabulary.

I want to share three children’s books that you can read with your child to help spark meaningful conversation and connections!

The 1619 Project: Born on the Water by Nikole Hannah-Jones and Renée Watson and illustrated by Nikkolas Smith

This painfully beautiful tale begins with a student who was assigned to trace her roots but has no information past three generations. Her grandmother tells the long history of her people, recalling the slave trade in addition to the life before and after 1619. 

Vocabulary to Pause and Discuss: generations, ancestor, freedom, legacy

Comprehension Check:

Before Reading: Look after the cover of the book. What do you think this book is about? 

During Reading: How did “the people’s” lives change from The Kingdom of Ndongo to Virginia? What did “the people” do to make a new home? 

After Reading: What does hope mean to you? 

Before She Was Harriet by Lesa Cline-Ransome and illustrated by James Ransome

Before She Was Harriet is one of many stories about Harriet Tubman’s life and legacy. Harriet Tubman’s legacy goes beyond the underground railroad to a nurse, general, spy, and many more. 

Vocabulary: suffrage, courage, freedom

Comprehension Check:

Before reading: What do you already know about Harriet Tubman? 

During Reading: What new things did you learn about Harriet Tubman? 

After Reading: Name three of the roles Harriet Tubman served throughout her life?

Dream Big Little One by Vashti Harrison (great for toddler and primary)

This beautifully illustrated book highlights the achievements of groundbreaking African-American women in history. Each page is filled with inspirational characteristics that any child can aspire to have. 

Vocabulary: leader, bold, creativity, sculpt

Comprehension Check:

After Reading: Which were your favorite people in the book and why? Draw a picture of what you dream of being in the future.

These are just a tiny portion of the books that you can read with your child throughout Black History Month and beyond! With each book you choose to read with your child, pause to teach vocabulary that will likely reappear in conversation and other books they read. Explore the book before, during, and after reading to get them engaged in thinking about what they are reading. I’m thrilled to share these books and hope that you all enjoy them as much as I do! 

Jade Jackson

Learning Support Specialist for Literacy