Black History Month Picture Books and Hands-On Homeschool Projects
Black History Month is a meaningful time to intentionally study the lives, contributions, and courage of Black Americans who shaped history in powerful ways. In our homeschool, we especially love learning through picture book biographies, which help children connect emotionally with history while developing empathy, admiration, and understanding.
The following Black History Month picture books for homeschool are paired with simple, hands-on projects that bring these stories to life and help children engage more deeply with themes of perseverance, faith, creativity, and bravery.
A Weed Is a Flower: The Life of George Washington Carver
by Aliki
This classic picture book biography introduces children to George Washington Carver, a scientist and educator whose curiosity and perseverance led to groundbreaking agricultural discoveries.
Black History Month Projects
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Flower Dissection Science Study
Dissect a flower and create a labeled notebook page identifying the different parts of a flower. -
Homemade Peanut Butter
Make peanut butter using fresh, whole peanuts. Grind them in a food processor or blender, adding organic vegetable oil as needed. Discuss how Carver’s work helped farmers and communities.
Follow the Drinking Gourd
by Jeanette Winter
This powerful story explains how enslaved people used songs, stars, and courage to navigate the Underground Railroad in their journey toward freedom.
Black History Month Projects
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Learning Directions and Compass Skills
Practice identifying north, south, east, and west in your yard or neighborhood. -
Nature Navigation Walk
Look for natural clues such as moss growth on trees, which often appears thicker on the north side.
Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom
by Carole Boston Weatherford
This poetic biography tells the story of Harriet Tubman’s leadership and faith as she guided others to freedom.
Black History Month Projects
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Following Directions Activity
Leave written clues or directions for your children to follow to a small surprise, mirroring the importance of trust and guidance. -
Mapping the Underground Railroad
Look up routes used by Harriet Tubman and create a simple map showing key locations.
I Have a Dream
by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., illustrated by Kadir Nelson
This illustrated version of Dr. King’s historic speech helps children understand the Civil Rights Movement and the power of words to inspire change.
Black History Month Projects
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Speech Reading Practice
Practice reading the speech aloud, focusing on expression and meaning. -
Write an Inspirational Speech
Encourage children to write a short speech encouraging others toward courage, justice, and love.
Teaching Black History with Intention
While we can never fully understand experiences that are not our own, our family believes it is essential to introduce children to stories of people who lived lives shaped by different challenges and realities. Through reading, discussion, and hands-on learning, children can develop compassion, humility, and respect for the dignity of every person.
We hope these Black History Month homeschool books and activities help your family engage thoughtfully with history and inspire meaningful conversations about bravery, perseverance, and hope.
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