If you read yesterday’s post, Help Kids Lose Weight by Cutting History Class, you probably noticed I am a vehement supporter of teaching children about history – from family genealogy to ancient civilizations. The article that got my blood boiling proposed that if History classes are removed to make room for Physical Education courses we will be able to effectively combat the childhood obesity epidemic, based in large part on the theory that knowledge of history is not necessary for a successful future.
I’ve made my arguments for why I so strongly feel that children must have a solid grasp on historical figures and events – now I hope to show Dr. Kal and anyone else who feels that History is an effectual and less than mesmerizing course of study just how easy it is to incorporate history into the lives of our kids so that they not only learn dates and peoples, but how those are interconnected with their own lives and the world.
Make History Come Alive
Any subject, when taught with dry books, infinite details scrawled on chalkboards, and constant lectures will probably be less than enticing or exciting for children. Whether you are a teacher, parent of an elementary school student, or home school parent, you can implement these ideas to help history come alive. Get your kids and students out of their desks and get them moving. Learning about history does not equate to remaining seated.
Historical reenacting – There are numerous historical homes, sites, museums and more that bring history to life by recreating scenes and images from years past. Reading about the formation of a military unit is one thing, but watching soldiers march across a field in Civil War uniforms puts everything into perspective.
Not only can kids be visitors at these sites, but they can volunteer as reenactors as well. My children have all done reenacting, something that not only helps them to connect the past to their present assumptions about life, but is a great way to give back to the community. This summer my daughter and her best friend have provided story time each week for children held on the grounds of the Hubbard House, a local historic home. The two girls, complete in vintage clothing, greet guests as sisters who once lived in the home. The girls are also tour guides for this home where they have opportunities to learn about history while gaining immense amounts of public speaking opportunities (they will soon compete at the state level with their presentation about tour guide skills). Kids can also participate in everything from farm chores to old fashioned base ball games.
Museums – The word might conjure up stuffy images of glass cases and “Do Not Touch” signs, but taking kids to museums can help create connectivity to dates, people, and places and history. Check with your local historical society for information about museums, especially those with special exhibits where not only is touching allowed, but encouraged.
Tangible Projects – If you are reading with your kids about how slaves from the south escaped to the north using freedom quilts, have the kids use paper patterns to recreate the symbols represented in the quilts, or actually create mini quilts with these patterns together. If you are studying about pioneers travelling across the prairie in covered wagons (schooners), have the kids make their own butter by shaking cream in clean baby food jars. Simple activities such as these keep kids moving and give them tangible, clear perspectives about how people lived in the past.
Community Involvement – We are fortunate to live in a county where the local historical society supports and encourages the roles of youth in historical studies and preservation. Through groups such as the Young Historians program kids can gather together and learn about history through guest speakers, movies, craft projects, and their favorite – snacks! If your community doesn’t offer such programs, see if you can help start one – even meeting just once a month helps to reiterate historical timeframes and concepts for kids.
Documentaries – Another boring word for some, but modern documentaries are very intriguing and full of action, drama, and suspense. Cinematography advances allow for documentaries to be created as miniature mystery films, drawing the viewer into the story – or history. Watch some with your kids and you might be surprised at what you learn.
Journals – Read journals by famous figures in history such as Anne Frank, but also encourage your kids to write their own journals. These are pieces of history in the making that everyone will treasure.
Time Capsules – Once a year create a time capsule with your kids and let them add to it what they think represents their present lives. An empty pack of their favorite gum, an article from the paper, their baseball picture, or their report card are all small, easy to store pieces of memorabilia. If you can, actually bury the capsule in the backyard in a plastic storage container. Storing it on the closet shelf works just as well, as long as no one peeks or changes their stash!
Talk – One of the most important things we can do with our kids for any subject is to share ideas with them, ask questions, and be asked questions. Finding the answers together is the most rewarding experience. Encourage them to question the past and find solid answers and explanations for how history books are written.
Our children are history in the making.
History does not have to be the boring class that provides an hour of rest time for students. Engaging, thought provoking activities and materials can provide the right mix of sources for their studies. When our children can reflect on the past with knowledge and understanding, they can take on the important roles of creating brighter futures.
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