GET READY FOR WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH

WHY DO WE CELEBRATE WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH?

Women's History Month is celebrated in March in the United States to honor and recognize the contributions, achievements, and struggles of women throughout history. The choice of March has several historical reasons:

1. International Women's Day: March 8th is International Women's Day, a global celebration of women's achievements and a call for gender equality. The roots of Women's History Month in the US can be traced back to the socialist and labor movements of the early 20th century, which recognized and celebrated International Women's Day.
2. Commemoration of Women's Suffrage: March is also significant in the US because it marks the anniversary of several key events in the women's suffrage movement. For example, on March 3, 1913, the first large-scale suffrage parade took place in Washington, D.C. Additionally, on March 8, 1914, there was a march for women's suffrage in London. These events laid the groundwork for women's right to vote in the US and UK.
3. Connection to Important Women's History Milestones: March aligns with significant milestones in women's history, such as the formation of the National Organization for Women (NOW) on March 7, 1966, and the Supreme Court's decision in Reed v. Reed on March 22, 1971, which for the first time struck down a state law because it discriminated on the basis of gender.

Overall, March provides a fitting backdrop for Women's History Month, as it symbolizes both the historical struggle for women's rights and the ongoing efforts towards gender equality.

During Women's History Month, children may study various influential women from history and contemporary times across different fields and areas of accomplishment.

Here are some notable women often studied:

1. Rosa Parks - Known as the "Mother of the Civil Rights Movement" for her pivotal role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
2. Susan B. Anthony - A key figure in the women's suffrage movement, advocating for women's right to vote.
3. Marie Curie - A pioneering physicist and chemist, known for her groundbreaking research on radioactivity.
4. Amelia Earhart - A pioneering aviator and the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.
5. Malala Yousafzai - An advocate for girls' education and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate.
6. Harriet Tubman - An abolitionist and activist known for her work on the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved people escape to freedom.
7. Jane Goodall - A primatologist and conservationist, known for her groundbreaking study of chimpanzees in Tanzania.
8. Michelle Obama - Former First Lady of the United States, lawyer, and advocate for education, health, and women's rights.
9. Sacagawea - A Native American woman known for her role as an interpreter and guide for the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
10. Frida Kahlo - A Mexican artist known for her unique and vibrant paintings, often exploring themes of identity, gender, and culture.

These are just a few examples, and there are countless other women whose contributions are celebrated during Women's History Month and beyond.

Engaging children in activities to understand women's history can be both educational and enjoyable.

Here are some fun activities:

1. Storytime: Read age-appropriate books about influential women in history. Choose stories that highlight their achievements, challenges they faced, and their contributions to society. After reading, discuss the stories and ask questions to encourage critical thinking.
2. Role-playing: Organize a role-playing activity where children can dress up as famous women from history and act out important events or speeches. This helps them understand the perspectives and experiences of these women.
3. Research Projects: Assign research projects on notable women in history and their accomplishments. Encourage children to create presentations or posters to share what they've learned with their peers.
4. Field Trips: Take children on field trips to museums or historical sites that focus on women's history. Many museums offer interactive exhibits and educational programs designed specifically for children.
5. Arts and Craft Projects: Engage children in art and craft activities inspired by influential women. They can create portraits, sculptures, or collages depicting these women or scenes from their lives.
6. Writing Activities: Encourage children to write stories, poems, or essays about women who have made a significant impact on history. They can explore themes such as courage, perseverance, and leadership.
7. Discussion Circles: Hold group discussions where children can share their thoughts and reflections on women's history. Encourage open dialogue and provide opportunities for children to ask questions and learn from each other.
8. Film Screenings: Watch documentaries or films about women's history together as a group. Afterward, facilitate a discussion to explore key themes and messages portrayed in the films.
9. Interviews: Arrange for children to interview women in their community who have made a difference or overcome obstacles. This provides valuable insights into the lived experiences of women and fosters empathy and understanding.
10. Community Service Projects: Engage children in community service projects that focus on issues important to women, such as gender equality, women's health, or supporting women-led initiatives. This helps children connect their learning to real-world issues and encourages them to become agents of change.

By incorporating these fun and educational activities into children's learning experiences, they can develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of women's history and the impact of women on society.

Check out my resource WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH: READING & WRITING LESSONS (2ND-4TH GRADES).

Visit my teacher resource page, Elly Elementary, for resources to use all year long. Also, please follow my Facebook page, Elly Elementary.

Who is your favorite woman to learn about during Women's History Month? You can comment or email me your response at Elly713@ellyelementary.com

I like to learn about new women each year. It is so important to honor the women in our lives. Don't forget the women in your personal life who have influenced you in your life.