Fun Ways to Teach History to Kids
Teaching history to kids doesn’t have to be dry or boring—it can be an exciting adventure that sparks curiosity and creativity. By turning historical lessons into hands-on activities, stories, and games, children can connect with the past in ways that feel engaging and relevant. Read on for interactive ways to help kids discover the fascinating stories, people, and events that have shaped our world.
Explore Local History
Discovering local history helps kids connect with their community and its past. Visit historical sites, museums, or landmarks to learn about their significance, or take part in a walking tour. Encourage kids to explore the stories behind unique buildings and learn about notable people who shaped the area. Exploring local history makes the past easier to understand and helps kids feel proud of their community.
Connect Generations Through Stories of the Past
Interviewing elders is a meaningful way for kids to learn about history through personal stories and firsthand accounts. Grandparents, neighbors, or community members can share their experiences of significant events, cultural traditions, or everyday life in the past. Encourage kids to ask questions about what school, work, or play was like during their childhood, as well as memorable historical moments they lived through. Recording these interviews or writing down their stories can preserve these memories for future generations. This activity not only helps kids understand history in a personal and relatable way but also strengthens connections between generations and fosters respect for the wisdom and experiences of elders.
History Through Art
Bring history to life at home by engaging kids in art projects inspired by historic masterpieces. Re-create famous works like Van Gogh’s Starry Night using paints or pastels, or try making your own version of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics with paper and markers. Kids can craft medieval shields, design Roman mosaics, or experiment with Impressionist brushstrokes, all while learning about the time periods that inspired these styles. These hands-on activities make history more tangible, allowing kids to connect with the past while exploring their creativity and having fun.
Learn Through Play
Playing with historical toys and games helps children connect with and appreciate the history of different cultures. For instance, Kokeshi dolls highlight Japanese artistry and tradition, while these traditional Indian games trace back to ancient history. Toys and games like these inspire imaginative play, allowing kids to explore new worlds and broaden their understanding of diverse cultures and histories.
Bring History to Life with Movies
Watching movies and documentaries is a great way to make history come alive for kids. Choose age-appropriate content that balances education and entertainment, such as animated adaptations like Mulan or family-friendly films like Night at the Museum. Documentaries like The Who Was? Show or National Geographic specials offer engaging visuals and storytelling. After watching, discuss key events, themes, or historical figures portrayed, encouraging kids to think critically about how the events shaped the world. You can even compare the film's version to actual historical facts, fostering curiosity and research skills in a fun, interactive way.
Take a Trip to the Library
A trip to the library is a great way to spark kids' interest in history. Books like Little Leaders share stories of influential people from diverse backgrounds in a way kids can easily understand. Other great options include Herstory, which highlights notable women in history, and the Dear America series, written as journals from the perspective of children living in different historical periods. To keep kids interested, pair reading with fun activities like creating art inspired by historical figures or visiting local landmarks connected to what they’ve learned.
Celebrate Diversity
Exploring holidays and traditions from around the world is a fun way to teach kids about different cultures and foster appreciation for their history. Celebrate events like Lunar New Year, Diwali, Hanukkah, or Día de los Muertos, even if they’re not part of your family’s heritage. Learn together about the history, customs, and significance behind these celebrations. For example, make traditional foods, create crafts like lanterns or rangoli, or listen to music associated with the holiday. Share stories about why these traditions are meaningful to the people who celebrate them, and if possible, attend community events or festivals to experience them firsthand. This hands-on approach helps kids understand and respect cultural differences while showing them how traditions bring people together across the world.
Plagona dolls offer a fun way for kids to explore and connect with Ancient Greek history.
Gift Toys That Teach Kids About History
Playing with traditional toys, like those from Remembered Toys, helps children learn about history and the cultures that shaped it. These toys offer a hands-on way to explore the past, sparking curiosity about how people lived, worked, and played in different times and places. They also encourage imaginative play, allowing kids to step into historical worlds and gain a deeper appreciation for the traditions and stories that have been passed down through generations.
