KidZone History
Canada - Learning About Canada
Scotland - Flora MacDonald
Teaching Kids History: A Guide for Teachers
Introduction
Teaching history to children is a rewarding journey that not only explores the past but also helps students understand the present and imagine the future. The Kidzone History page, now inclusive of captivating tales from Greek mythology, offers a treasure trove of resources designed to make history come alive for young learners. Here's a short guide to help educators effectively engage and inspire their students through the rich tapestry of history.
- Start with Stories
History is full of compelling narratives, and children are naturally drawn to stories. Begin your lessons with the intriguing tales of Greek gods, legendary heroes, and mythical creatures to capture their imagination. Use storytelling to set the stage for deeper exploration of historical facts and concepts. - Connect the Dots
Help students make connections between the myths, historical events, and the modern world. Discuss how ancient cultures like the Greeks have influenced contemporary society, from language and literature to government and philosophy. Encourage students to see history as a continuous thread that connects us to the past. - Engage with Creative Activities
Utilize the arts to deepen historical understanding. Encourage students to create their own myth-inspired artwork, perform short plays based on historical events, or write poems from the perspective of historical figures. These activities foster creativity while reinforcing historical knowledge. - Critical Thinking and Discussion
Promote critical thinking by discussing the morals and lessons behind historical events and myths. Ask open-ended questions that encourage students to consider different perspectives and the reasons behind historical changes. This will help them develop analytical skills and a deeper understanding of history's complexities. - Incorporate Multimedia Resources
The Kidzone History page offers a variety of multimedia resources that can enhance learning. Use videos, interactive timelines, and online games to complement traditional teaching methods. These resources can cater to different learning styles and keep students engaged. - Field Trips and Virtual Tours
Whenever possible, organize field trips to museums, historical sites, or cultural festivals that relate to your curriculum. For schools where this isn't feasible, virtual tours can be an excellent alternative, offering students a glimpse into different eras and cultures without leaving the classroom. - Celebrate Diversity
History is the story of all humanity. Ensure that your curriculum reflects a diversity of cultures, perspectives, and experiences. Highlight the contributions of various civilizations to the world's heritage, fostering a sense of global citizenship and mutual respect among students. - Encourage Independent Exploration
Inspire students to become history detectives. Assign projects that require independent research, allowing them to explore topics of personal interest within the historical framework. This not only enhances their knowledge but also builds research and presentation skills.
Conclusion
Teaching history to kids is an exciting opportunity to nurture informed, empathetic, and curious future citizens. By weaving together stories, critical thinking, creativity, and diverse resources, educators can create a dynamic learning environment that celebrates the richness of our shared past and the potential of our collective future.
Other links you might enjoy:
- Countries and Cultures Coloring Pages - includes a number of maps
- DLTK's Countries and Cultures activities for kids (crafts, coloring, recipes and more)