Learning about Black history can be incredibly eye-opening and inspiring, even for young kids. It’s no surprise that movies are a great way to bring this subject to life!
Watch these Black History movies for kids in a classroom, home, or church to educate elementary students, high school students, or adults about Black History. Then watch these Black History Movies for Kids on Netflix.
Black History Movies for Kids
Choosing Black History movies for kids involves considering age-appropriateness, educational value, and engaging storytelling. Here are some tips:
1. Age-appropriate content: Select movies that are suitable for your child's age and maturity level. Look for age ratings and reviews to ensure the content is suitable.
2. Educational value: Choose movies that provide accurate historical information about important Black figures, events, or movements. Look for films that promote understanding and empathy.
3. Positive role models: Pick movies that showcase strong, positive Black role models and their contributions to society.
4. Diverse perspectives: Consider movies that represent a variety of experiences within the Black community, highlighting the richness of Black history.
5. Engaging storytelling: Select films with compelling storytelling and visuals to keep kids interested and entertained.
6. Discussion opportunities: After watching, discuss the movie with your child to ensure they understand the historical context and the lessons it imparts.
7. Book adaptations: Look for movies based on children's books or literature that are known for their educational value.
Remember to watch the movie first to ensure it aligns with your values and educational goals.
Here are our picks:
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Angela Bassett, Cicely Tyson, Peter Francis (Actors)
(NOT RATED)
Age: Elementary
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Misty Copeland (Actor)
(NOT RATED)
Age: 9+
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Taraji P. Henson, Janelle Monae, Kevin Costner (Actors)
(PG)
Age: 10+
To continue learning, check out the Hidden Figures Movie Guide.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Barack Obama, Neil Abercrombie (Actors)
By the People: The Election of Barack Obama
(NOT RATED)
Age: 13+
This 2009 documentary film produced by Edward Norton and broadcast in November 2009 on HBO, follows Barack Obama and various members of his campaign team, including David Axelrod, through the two years leading up to the United States presidential election on November 4, 2008.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- LeVar Burton, Cicely Tyson, Edward Asner (Actors)
(NOT RATED)
Age: 14+
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Gabrielle Douglas, Imani Hakim, Regina King (Actors)
The Gabby Douglas Story
(NOT RATED)
Age: 12+
This biographical drama tells the story of Gabby Douglas, the American gymnast who made history at the 2012 Summer Olympics by becoming the first black woman to win the Individual All-Around Championship.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Henry Louis Gates Jr. (Actor)
The African Americans
(PG)
Written and presented by Professor Gates, the six-hour series explores the evolution of the African-American people, as well as the multiplicity of cultural institutions, political strategies, and religious and social perspectives they developed — forging their own history, culture, and society against unimaginable odds.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Tom Wilkinson, Carmen Ejogo, Giovanni Ribisi (Actors)
Selma
(PG-13)
In the face of violent racist attacks, Martin Luther King Jr. leads a protest in Alabama that culminates in a historic march from Selma to Montgomery.
To continue learning, check out the Black History Research Unit.
If you enjoyed this list of movies, I have a monthly membership for parents and educators that want to teach or supplement lessons with shows and movies.
“I absolutely love sharing movies with my kids as a way to teach them valuable lessons. It's like this awesome bonding experience where we all snuggle up on the couch with some popcorn, and I get to see their little faces light up with curiosity. Whether it's a classic with timeless morals or a new animated flick with hidden gems of wisdom, it's a fantastic way to impart important life lessons in a fun and engaging way. Plus, the post-movie discussions are priceless – hearing their take on the characters and the story adds a whole new dimension to our family time.” –a Homeschooling parent
With Homeschooling with Shows and Movies membership, you will get resources every month, including:
- List of This Month’s Suggested Themes
- List of Monthly Observances
- List Of Movies for Unit Study
- Unit Study Resource
- Seasonal Activities (minimum of three)
- (BONUSES) Resources for you, the teacher
These resources are worth it if you'd like to easily incorporate shows and movies into your homeschooling.
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