Learn About Kwanzaa! (ages 5-10)

Kwanzaa is a cultural holiday celebrated by many Black people in America and some other countries. In this one time class, we will talk about what each day of Kwanzaa means, how people celebrate, and what some of the importance behind the holiday means. This is not a religious holiday, so many different people observe and celebrate it. 

This will be a very interactive class. I will show students a traditional African drum used on a celebration of music day; they will see different items that are used for the holiday such as the kinara (candleholder), candles, unity cup, and a batik cloth used as a placemat for holding the symbols of the holiday. Students will also be able to see traditional African clothing and jewelry that is often worn on the holiday. We will talk about each day of the holiday and what that means to them as a student. 

This class is fun, interactive, and teaches children about a holiday that is often misrepresented. This should be fun and educational! I have a BA in Africana Studies and have celebrated this holiday for years, so I love sharing the history and joy of the holiday. 

Students will be given the chance to dance, draw, create, and enjoy the class. There will be printable coloring sheets available to children a few days before class that they can print and bring to class to color while we learn about the days of Kwanzaa. These will be turned into a book about the 7 days of Kwanzaa for children to share with their families after class! 

Students are encouraged to bring a musical instrument or sing along with the dance party at the end of class! 

There is no required knowledge for this class; students are encouraged to come, discuss, and learn from one another!