The kids are off school on January 20th for Martin Luther King Jr Day, hooray! It’s always nice to have a long weekend, but hopefully, you’re able to take some time to talk to your kids about why this day is significant. It is also a great time to participate in a day of service in your community.
There are many resources, books, shows, and events about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the role he played in the Civil Rights Movement. This is a great time to educate your kids (and yourself) about this topic.
As parents, it can be hard to know how to start having these conversations, especially if your kids are little. But the sooner you start, the more normal it will be to talk about hard things. You don’t have to have all the answers or all the right words. Start a conversation and be ready to listen to your kid’s thoughts and questions. They will probably surprise you!
Ways to Celebrate MLK Day
Watch this video, The Story of Martin Luther King Jr by Kid President.
Watch the I Have a Dream speech and ask your kids what they think about it.
Listen to a reading of the book Martin’s Big Words. Some other good books are:
I Am Martin Luther King Jr. Ordinary People Change the World
Be a King: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Dream and You
If You Were a Kid During the Civil Rights Movement
Take time to ask your kids if they have questions after reading. You might be surprised by their reactions!
Local Activities for Martin Luther King Jr. Day
12th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Prayer Breakfast
When: January 20, 7:30 a.m. to 9
Where: Parents Hall, Drake University Olmsted Center 2875 University Ave, Des Moines
Join residents, business and government leaders, and representatives of community nonprofit organizations to celebrate the legacy of Dr. King and promote his message of peace, justice, and opportunity for all. Hosted by YMCA of Greater Des Moines.
West Des Moines MLK Day Celebration and Multicultural Reception
When: January 20, 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex 6500 Grand Ave West Des Moines
Don’t miss this chance to be a part of a community-driven celebration that invites all to stand united in creating a world where justice is upheld.
WDM MLK Day Service Opportunities with Meals from the Heartland
When: January 20, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: Meals from the Heartland, 357 Lincoln Street, WDM
Package meals to give back.
Martin Luther King Jr Day Celebration
When: January 20, 4 p.m.
Where: Forest Avenue Library, 1326 Forest Ave, Des Moines
Join us for an annual celebration in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The keynote speaker is a well-known community leader, business owner, voting rights activist, multiple board committee member, and newly appointed President & CEO of Oakridge Neighborhood, Deidre DeJear.
