Honoring the Past, Cultivating the Future: Celebrating Black History Month at CCAC

At the Child Care Action Council, our commitment to equity, inclusion, and racial justice is at the heart of everything we do. This February, as we recognize Black History Month, we take intentional time to honor the profound contributions of African Americans who have shaped our nation, our local communities, and the field of early childhood education.

For CCAC, Black History Month is more than a look back at the past; it is a vital part of our ongoing work to foster positive self-identities in children and promote cultural humility across our region.

Why Representation Matters in Early Learning

Research shows that children begin to notice race and develop biases as early as infancy. By age three, they are already forming opinions about themselves and others based on social cues and the media they consume.

When we celebrate Black History in our classrooms and homes, we aren’t just teaching history—we are providing “mirrors and windows.”

• Mirrors: Allowing Black children to see themselves as leaders, innovators, and heroes.
• Windows: Allowing all children to see and value the diversity of the human experience.

Resources for Your Family or Classroom

Educating ourselves and our children is a lifelong journey. Here are a few ways you can engage this month:

• Read Together: Look for books like “Hair Love” by Matthew A. Cherry or “The ABCs of Black History” by Rio Cortez or acclaimed African American children’s writer Renée Watson’s book All the Blues in the Sky.
• Explore Local Heroes: Research Black leaders right here in Washington state who have advocated for education and social justice.
• Inspiring Activities: Check out the PBS KIDS for Parents article on how to encourage your kids to celebrate Black history.

Join the Conversation

Our commitment to listening to the stories of the families we serve is unwavering. We invite you to visit our Equity and Inclusion page to see our latest updates, newsletters, and resources.

As we celebrate the achievements of the past, we remain dedicated to building a future where every child—regardless of their race—has the opportunity to thrive in a safe, nurturing, and equitable environment.