March is Women's History Month. What a fantastic opportunity to teach your students about brave, bold, and brilliant women!
Introduce them to some significant contributions by women that have changed our world and daily lives in fun and exciting ways. Not sure how? Read on to find out.
What is Celebrated for Women's History Month?
Women's History Month focuses on the contributions made by women in the areas of history, culture, and society. Former President Jimmy Carter was responsible for declaring the week of March 8 as National Women's History Week back in 1980. Eventually, Congress followed his lead and established the month as a much-needed national celebration.
If you want to personally brush up on Women's History Month facts to understand this particular month better and teach your students, here are some awesome ones to remember:
- The First Women's History Day was first observed in 1909. After that, it grew from a day to a week and then a month.
- First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt held the White House's first press conference for women reporters in 1933 because women were often excluded from the media.
- Presently, 71% of women with children under 18 work.
- Marie Curie is the only woman ever to win two Nobel Prizes. Her awards were for physics and chemistry.
- Every Women's History Month has a theme. The 2022 theme is "Women Providing Healing, Promoting Hope."
- Claudette Colvin refused to give up her bus seat nine months before Rosa Parks did. Rosa Parks was an essential contributor to the Civil Rights Movement. However, nine months before she refused to give up her seat on a bus for a white person in Montgomery, Alabama, 15-year-old Claudette Colvin did the same thing on the same bus system. Yet, Colvin isn't widely recognized for her act.
- Women make up 24% of Congress.
- Aretha Franklin was the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
There are many more numerous Women's History Day facts, but these could be interesting talking points for students of all ages.
"It is important to take note of Women's History Month so that children of all ages learn about womens' impact on our world so that young girls can find inspiration and possibly grow up to make great contributions."
Why Is It Important to Celebrate Women's History Month?
The achievements of men always seem to be evident, leaving women out of the spotlight at times. It is essential to take note of Women's History Month so that children of all ages learn about womens' impact on our world so that young girls can find inspiration and possibly grow up to make significant contributions. This month-long celebration helps promote equity and appreciation for one gender by another.
As educators, we know that not all female students have positive role models in their lives, and they need that extra exposure and push to go on and do great things. The simple act of observing this special month can give them confidence, raise awareness, and provide instant inspiration!
How Can You Celebrate Women's History Month for Kids in Your Class?
Some educators prefer to assign a project, while others like to read a fun fact about each day's celebratory month. Others find cross-curricular activities covering standard aligned skills centered around fascinating and influential women in history. Some show films, read stories or even write letters to influential women in the community. Regardless of how you celebrate Women's History Month for kids, one thing's for sure; your students will be more aware and appreciative of these fearless and fabulous influencers.
In conclusion, your students will love learning about many unique women throughout time. Check out our Women's History Month resource hub, and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletters to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and ideas.
Sources:
https://www.masterstudies.com/article/eight-fun-facts-for-womens-history-students/
https://www.womansday.com/life/a34908026/womens-history-month-facts/
