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Kwanzaa

Heritage is celebrated during Kwanzaa, so why not learn more about this tradition?

• Teachers: It is important that children gain an understanding and respect for their own and other people's heritage. Why not encourage families to explore Kwanzaa over winter break as a way to discuss their own heritage and traditions.
• Parents: Share the joy of learning with your children by exploring these sites and talking about your family heritage and traditions!

Indiana Academic Standards
English/Language Arts

Standard 4: Writing Process/Research and Technology

English/Language Arts

Standard 7: Listening and Speaking

Social Studies

Standard 5: Individuals, Society, and Culture

Kwanzaa

visit this site
This is an introduction of Kwanzaa holiday created by History Channel.

Suggested Activities for Students

1. Read about the Kwanzaa celebration to discover what happens.
2. Under "History" view the video clip of an interview with Dr. Maulana Karenga, the founder of Kwanzaa.

Tips for Teachers

Learning about Kwanzaa can be fun. Avoid lumping the study of Kwanzaa with religious celebrations, as Kwanzaa is quite different. Having students learn about it at home with parents is one way to cover this celebration, but think about studying it during Black History Month, instead!

Tips for Parents

Explore these sites with your child. Select an activity to complete with your child.

Additional Kwanzaa Activities

Kwanzaa Fun from Billy Bear

Billy Bear and his friends have joined the Kwanzaa celebration! Visit the site for desktop fun with icons, printables, and many other projects and activities! visit this site

ChildFun Family Website: Kwanzaa

Suggested crafts, recipes and activities for you to do as you celebrate Kwanzaa. visit this site

Official Kwanzaa Website

This is the Official Kwanzaa Website by Dr. Maulana Karenga, founder. visit this site

Suggested Activity for Students

Dr. Karenga founded the American celebration of Kwanzaa in 1966. Think about your own heritage, traditions and beliefs. If you were to create a celebration of what you value, what would be on your list? Use a word processor to make a list and share it with your family.

Tips for Teachers

It is extremely valuable for the children to learn about the reason and principles of this celebration. Especially during Black History Month, this discussion is timely and will allow the class to discuss what values and principles they share that could be celebrated. Create a weeklong class celebration of the heritage they share!

Tips for Parents

After you and your child have visited the sites, help your child create a list of things your family values that could be celebrated. Together create a series of days to celebrate your own family heritage, traditions and values.

Buddy² Resource Links

Visit additional resources that are on our site as you develop your holiday thematic unit:

Holiday Lesson Plans