February 08, 2021
These TV shows, books and music will inspire and entertain audiences of all ages.
Black History Month is the perfect time to educate kids about some of the amazing accomplishments of Black men and women. It's also an opportunity to help them understand how much we all have in common — no matter the color of our skin.
Cox Stories reached out to Thomishia Booker — a licensed therapist who is the creator of the Hey Carter! Books, a series to help empower children of color, and a member of the Black Literary Collective — to recommend content.
Get ready to add a slew of titles to your watch, reading and music lists during Black History Month and beyond.
TV series
Ages 0-5
Esme and Roy: This PBS Kids series helps young children work through big problems in a relatable and playful way. Children practice mindfulness and deep breathing techniques to manage feelings of worry and frustration.
Reba to the Rescue: Various musicians and artists cover topics of self-love, body appreciation and celebrating differences on this YouTube series.
Ages 6-8
Bino and Fino: This series explores African music, art and culture — topics that aren't often included in typical school curriculum.
Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices: Each episode of this Netflix series features a book written by a Black author and read by an influential celebrity. The representation within the show allows Black children to see themselves and exposes other kids to new worlds.
Ages 8 and Up
Mama K's Team 4: This futuristic series set in Zambia focuses on an all-girl cast of superheroes, providing a positive representation of African children and highlighting the strength of girls.
Books
Ages 0-5
Breathe, Baby, Breathe: An ABC Guide to Mindfulness: This much-needed mindfulness toolkit for children by Amanda Loraine Lynch provides age-appropriate examples of how to listen to your body.
It's In You: A book for big dreamers: The main character in this story by Sharifa Anozie encourages children to keep going despite the problems they may face or what others say.
Why we stay home: Suzie Learns about Coronavirus: This timely and informative book was written by Samantha Harris and Devon Scott, two Black medical students, and intended to spark conversation about COVID-19. The authors define terms for children and assist caregivers with age-appropriate language to talk about the pandemic.
Ages 6-8
Little Sister: Books about siblings are so needed, especially ones that highlight positive relationships between a brother and sister. The illustrations, rhymes and silly humor make this book by Khalid White also teaches them valuable lessons about responsibility.
Haboba's House: This book by Alia Gabres exposes children to the Eritrean diaspora in Australia in a fun way. Children will get a glimpse into Iman's world and be exposed to a culture that isn't always highlighted in mainstream media and books.
Ages 8 and Up
Malik and The Magic Bowtie: Too often Black families are depicted without a father figure, perpetuating negative stereotypes. This book by Ray Young Jr. spotlights the bond between a Black father and son.
Orange: This book by Derrick Slack is about diversity, inclusion and the power of words, reminding children that it is OK to receive help when things get tough.
Music
0-8
Ms. Niki's Music Class: This virtual class helps teach children about a variety of subjects using music, dancing, and culture. She makes learning fun and creates a sense of safety by using culturally relevant content.
Ages 6-8
Ella Jenkins: The so-called “First Lady of Children's Music" takes classic children's songs and incorporates language and music from around the world.
Ages 8 and Up
Pierce Freelon: Using a combination of hip hop, soul and electronic sounds that speaks to children in a familiar way, Pierce Freelon creates music inspired by his experiences as a Black millennial father in the South.
