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Here are some ideas and resources for you and your nanny to recognize Martin Luther King Day with children and community engagement activities to honor Dr. King.
Every year the third Monday of January celebrates the late civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for his commitment to non-violent activism and protest of racial discrimination in the Civil Rights movement. This year that date falls on January 16.
Although schools, banks, post offices, and others close in observance we understand that as parents you may still be working on this day. With that in mind, we created a resource guide of ideas for your nannies and children to participate in as they have the day off in celebration! Or for you and your children if you have the day off in observance.
Here are some ideas and resources for you on recognizing MLK Day with your children and community engagement activities to honor Dr. King.
Participate in community engagements and volunteer efforts
A core part of Dr. King’s philosophy was his dedication to service and volunteerism. In honor of MLK day, take the opportunity to participate in activities in your community. From donation drives to hands-on service, take part in these initiatives with your children to emphasize the importance of volunteerism in honor of Dr. King.
To find volunteer opportunities in your area, go to AmeriCorp’s Volunteer Search.
Your state and local area may also have initiatives you can engage in honor of MLK.
For example, in New York State, where GTM Payroll Services is headquartered, there are several opportunities available for families:
Dr. King Statewide Food Drive: This year marks the 23rd anniversary of the community service initiative in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Co-sponsored by the Food Bank Association of New York State, the statewide food drive will accept donations from December 2, 2022, through February 10, 2023. Donations will be distributed in every region of the state from urban areas to rural towns.
Dr. King Statewide Book Drive: Since 2004, the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Children’s Book Drive collects new or gently used children’s books that are distributed to elementary, middle, high school, and after-school programs. The initiative partners with Albany City School District’s Literacy Programs, Project Flight (Buffalo State College), Reach Out and Read, Greater New York, and the ongoing collection will take place from February 20th through April 21, 2023.
Dr. King Volunteer Fair: Have older children interested in engaging in volunteer efforts throughout the year? Attend The New York State Martin Luther King, Jr. Volunteer fair on January 11, 2023, from 10 am-2 pm at The Empire State Plaza to learn how to be actively involved in your community.
Your state or town may have similar activities.
Read and watch
Reading is a great way to introduce your children to Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights movement. Provide your family with an opportunity to learn about the life of Dr. King and the Civil Rights movement through materials catered to their reading level. Scholastic has created reading lists to help:
Picture Books About Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for Young Children
5 Books to Celebrate the Life and Legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. (K-8)
Additionally, documentaries and movies serve as impactful resources. Here are kid-friendly recommendations of movies and documentaries on the Civil Rights Movement and MLK’s Legacy to show your children in honor of this day.
Educate through arts and crafts activities
For younger children and families, arts and crafts are the perfect activities to begin to teach them the importance of this holiday and Martin Luther King Jr. Here are a few links to printable resources to use this MLK Day.
Martin Luther King Jr. Coloring Pages
Martin Luther King, Jr. Printables and Activity Ideas
I Have a Dream- Martin Luther King Jr. Printable
Attend events in your area to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr.
Looking for something out of the house to participate in this MLK Day? MLK Day parades happen nationwide, take your children to celebrate, or visit a museum in your area if there are exhibits in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, or the Civil Rights Movement.
Whichever activities you and your nanny family participate in this year, be sure to explain to your children the importance of the holiday, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, an integral spokesperson of the Civil Rights movement.
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