Teaching students about slavery can be a challenging and emotionally charged topic, but it is important for children to learn about the history of slavery in order to gain a better understanding of where our society has come from and to prevent similar atrocities from happening again.

Here are some tips for teaching students about slavery in a kid-friendly way:

1. Start with the basics
It is important to start with the basics when teaching children about slavery. Teachers should explain what slavery is and the concept of owning another human being. They can also explain how slavery was used in America and other parts of the world.

2. Use stories and books
Books and stories about slavery can be a powerful tool for teaching children about this topic. Teachers can use books like “Henry’s Freedom Box” and “Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom” to illustrate the lives of enslaved people and how they escaped to freedom.

3. Visit museums and historical sites
Museums and historical sites can provide meaningful and interactive learning experiences for students. Places like the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. and slavery plantations like Monticello in Virginia can help students learn about slavery in a way that is both educational and engaging.

4. Use age-appropriate language
It is important to use age-appropriate language when teaching children about slavery. Avoid using complex terminology or academic language that may confuse younger students. Instead, break down concepts into simple terms that they can understand.

5. Encourage open discussion
Teachers should encourage open discussion in the classroom and create safe spaces for students to ask questions and share their thoughts and feelings about slavery. This can help students process the information they are learning and gain a deeper understanding of the topic.

Teaching students about slavery is an important part of educating the next generation about our shared history. By using a variety of teaching methods and resources, teachers can help students learn about this difficult topic in meaningful and age-appropriate ways.