As protests continue in the wake of George Lloyd’s death by a Minneapolis police officer, children may have questions about what they’re seeing in the streets. Or, they may not know what to ask, and then it becomes our responsibility as parents to engage them in conversations about racism, police violence and social justice.
Books are a great way to break the ice. Buy or borrow these 12 children’s books about race, recommended by our friends at Arlington Public Library, or tune into the National Civil Rights Museum’s annual Small But Mighty Storytime series.
There you’ll find videos of museum educators reading books about peacemaking, diversity, creating positive social change and more, plus related activities and crafts. One example: Kids can listen to a reading of “Let the Children March,” then learn how to make protest signs.
Here are five more things to do at home with your kids this weekend, plus information about a protest in D.C. if you’re feeling inspired to get involved.
Any-Day Fun
A summertime tradition in D.C., the Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle is back for its 28th year as a virtual event throughout the month of June. Benefiting the USO of Metropolitan Washington-Baltimore and the Capital Area Food Bank, the online experience includes free activities such as cooking contests, demonstrations and entertainment. We’re excited about the Giant Kids Zone, where children can craft with upcycled food containers, take virtual rides on Six Flags attractions and learn card tricks from a world-famous magician.
Friday, June 5
Family Yoga & Fun
Take a minute—well, 45 minutes—out of your day to relax and help your kids relax, too. Washington Yoga Center is offering a four-week family yoga class series that starts today for kids ages 3-10 with one or two adults. No yoga experience, and all poses will be age-appropriate and modified based on ability. Registration is required and costs $80 for four sessions or $25 for a single session. 2:30-3:15 p.m.
Saturday, June 6
Rise, Rhyme & Read
Culture Queen, Busboys and Poets’ Children’s Cultural Literacy Ambassador-in-Residence, takes to Facebook Live three times a week to with an interactive program for kids. She’ll get your kids moving with physical exercises, practicing empowerment with rhyming affirmations, listening to story and singing along to a joyful song. 10-10:30 a.m.
A Town Hall for Kids & Families
Back in April, “Sesame Street” and CNN joined together for a town hall that addressed the coronavirus pandemic. Now, the cable news channel and the children’s TV show are teaming up for another town hall that will address racism, the ongoing nationwide protests and being more empathetic and understanding. “Coming Together: Standing Up to Racism” will air on CNN and will stream live on CNN.com. 10 a.m.
Sunday, June 7
Protest in D.C.
Join protesters in Dupont Circle for a peaceful march in honor of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and all the other victims of police violence. Find more information on the event’s Facebook page. 3-8 p.m.
Ballston Live
Close out the weekend with a bang—the banging of drums, strumming of guitars and singing, that is. BallstonGives and Macy’s are throwing a benefit concert for local artists who haven’t been able to perform in recent months because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The event, which streams on Facebook Live, is free, but donations are encouraged. 7:30-8:30 p.m.
