Black History Month, celebrated each February, is a time to reflect on the immense contributions and resilience of the Black community throughout history. For young students, crafts provide an engaging and hands-on way to honor and learn about influential Black figures, traditions, and cultural milestones. By combining creativity with education, Black History Month crafts allow students to express their appreciation for the accomplishments of Black pioneers while deepening their understanding of historical struggles and triumphs.

Craft projects, like face silhouette art, famous figures posters, or books, offer opportunities to discuss themes of empowerment, freedom, and equality. These activities also encourage students to connect with stories of the past, opening their eyes to the enduring impact of Black leaders, artists, and innovators. By bringing history into the art classroom or home craft corner, we make learning accessible and fun, fostering an environment where children can appreciate diversity and celebrate the heroes who have shaped history. Whether you are crafting during black history month or are looking for a meaningful activity at any point during the year, this silhouette craft is a great option.

Black History Month Face Silhouette Craft: A Creative Tribute

Black History Month, celebrated every February, is a time to reflect on the rich and diverse history of the Black community. One engaging way to honor Black pioneers, leaders, and heroes is through a hands-on fun art project that incorporates art and history: a Black history month inspired silhouette craft. This simple yet impactful activity allows participants to express creativity while learning about influential Black people and black artists.

Celebrating Black History is essential for children of all races because it fosters a deeper understanding of the diverse contributions that have shaped society. By learning about Black history, children gain insight into the struggles, triumphs, and innovations of the Black community, which is an integral part of the larger American and global story. This knowledge helps dismantle stereotypes, promotes inclusivity, and encourages empathy by showing children the shared values and experiences that unite us as humans.

For children of all races, celebrating Black History also instills values like equality, justice, and resilience. It teaches them that people of different backgrounds have faced adversity and overcome challenges, providing role models who exemplify courage, leadership, and perseverance. By recognizing the achievements of Black pioneers in science, art, politics, and activism, children learn that greatness comes in many forms and from all communities, fostering a more inclusive worldview.

Moreover, celebrating Black History helps children of all races grow up with a more complete and honest perspective on history. It ensures that they understand the complex legacies of racism and how far we have come—and how far we still need to go—to achieve true equality. This awareness encourages them to be active participants in creating a more just and inclusive future.

For children of all races, celebrating Black History also instills values like equality, justice, and resilience. It teaches them that people of different backgrounds have faced adversity and overcome challenges, providing role models who exemplify courage, leadership, and perseverance. By recognizing the achievements of Black pioneers in science, art, politics, and activism, children learn that greatness comes in many forms and from all communities, fostering a more inclusive worldview.

Moreover, celebrating Black History helps children of all races grow up with a more complete and honest perspective on history. It ensures that they understand the complex legacies of racism and how far we have come—and how far we still need to go—to achieve true equality. This awareness encourages them to be active participants in creating a more just and inclusive future.

Black History Month Silhouette Materials Needed

To get started, you'll need the following supplies. I tend to find the best deals on amazon and like to buy art supplies in bulk to have on hand. Roll up your sleeves, stock up on your favorite art craft supplies, and start creating. You and your child will have SO much fun and come up with amazing art to display for years to come!

Black construction paper or cardstock
Scissors
Watercolor paint
Glue
Optional: Colored markers or embellishments (glitter, stickers, etc.)

Steps to Create Your Face Silhouette Craft

Step 1: Select a Historical Figure

Begin by choosing an influential figure from Black history. It could be someone like Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr., Maya Angelou, Malcolm X, or even a modern-day figure like Misty Copeland or Barack Obama. For younger kids, you can simply create generic silhouettes, which can represent the collective strength of the Black community.

Step 2: Trace the Silhouette

Using a side-profile photo of your chosen historical figure (or a partner for fun!), place it over the black construction paper. Carefully trace the black outline of the face with a pencil, paying close attention to the curves and details of the profile.

Step 3: Cut the Silhouette

Cut out the traced silhouette with scissors, making sure to keep the lines smooth and even. Take your time with this step as it forms the foundation of your craft.

Step 4: Prepare the Background

On a contrasting sheet of paper (white, gold, or any vibrant color), glue the silhouette to create a stark contrast. You can also layer different colors or textures for added dimension.

Step 5: Attach the silhouette to the background.

Step 6: Find a meaningful quote or statement to write on your silhouette / poster.

How to Create a Silhouette:

The best way to trace silhouettes of kids is a simple process that combines creativity and a few materials. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Choose a Well-Lit Space

The key to a clean silhouette is good lighting. Position the child so their side profile faces a bright light source, such as a lamp or sunlight from a window. You want the shadow of their profile to fall sharply on a blank wall or a large piece of white paper taped to the wall.

2. Use a Light Source and Project

Position the child a few feet away from the light source, ensuring they’re standing or sitting still, facing sideways. Their profile should cast a clear shadow on the wall or paper.

3. Trace the Shadow

Have someone stand by and trace the child’s profile directly onto the paper. A pencil or fine-tipped marker works well to capture the outline. Be sure to trace all details, including hair, eyelashes, and the nose, for an accurate silhouette.

4. Cut and Customize

Once the outline is traced, remove the paper from the wall and cut out the silhouette using scissors. You can then glue the silhouette onto a contrasting background for a striking visual effect or leave it as a stand-alone art piece.

This method is not only effective but also fun for kids, as they get to see their shadow come to life in a creative form!

Learning Opportunities / Project Ideas

Here are 10 engaging Black History Month lesson plans/ ideas for elementary students that can be used in school or at home:

1. Famous Figures Matching Game

Objective: Introduce students to key figures in Black history by creating a fun, interactive game.
Activity: Create cards with names and photos of influential Black leaders, and another set with their contributions or achievements. Students match the person with their accomplishments. Figures could include Rosa Parks, Jackie Robinson, George Washington Carver, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Ruby Bridges.
Discussion: Talk about each person's legacy and impact on American history.

2. Timeline of Black History

Objective: Help students understand the progression of Black historical events from slavery to civil rights to the present.
Activity: Students work together to build a large timeline in the classroom, marking key events such as the Underground Railroad, Emancipation Proclamation, the Civil Rights Movement, and the election of Barack Obama.
Discussion: Discuss the significance of each event and how it shaped today's society.

3. Create a 'Black History Heroes' Poster

Objective: Highlight key figures in Black history by having students create posters celebrating their lives.
Activity: Each student picks a Black historical figure to research. They create a poster that includes a drawing or photo, key facts, and why the figure is important.
Presentation: Students share their posters and present their chosen figure to the class or family.

4. Read Aloud Books by Black Authors

Objective: Expose students to literature by Black authors and stories that highlight Black experiences.
Activity: Choose age-appropriate books like "Tar Beach" by Faith Ringgold, "Henry's Freedom Box" by Ellen Levine, or "The Undefeated" by Kwame Alexander. Read them aloud and discuss themes of resilience, freedom, and pride.
Discussion: Ask students what lessons they can learn from the characters.

5. Learning Through Music: History of Jazz and Blues

Objective: Teach students about the cultural impact of Black music, particularly jazz, blues, and gospel.
Activity: Play examples of music by legends like Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, and B.B. King. Discuss the origins of these music styles in African American culture.
Extension: Have students create simple musical instruments and try to replicate rhythms or melodies they hear.

6. "I Have a Dream" Speech Craft

Objective: Explore Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy by examining his famous "I Have a Dream" speech.
Activity: Watch a clip or read excerpts from the speech, then ask students to write or draw their own dreams for a better world. These can be displayed on a classroom bulletin board or at home.
Discussion: Talk about the importance of peaceful activism and equality.

7. Explore the Harlem Renaissance

Objective: Introduce students to the artistic and cultural movement known as the Harlem Renaissance.
Activity: Share artwork, music, and poetry from figures like Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Jacob Lawrence. Encourage students to create their own poems or artwork inspired by the movement.
Extension: Have a classroom "gallery" where students share their creations.

Displaying the Artwork

Once the silhouette is complete, consider turning it into a larger project. You could display them as part of a classroom mural, a home gallery, or even create a "Wall of Heroes" to showcase influential figures. This would be a powerful reminder of the individuals who have paved the way for future generations.

Black History Month crafts go beyond creative expression, serving as a powerful tool to teach students about the rich and complex history of Black Americans. Through each project, children not only explore the importance of Black contributions to society but also reflect on themes of courage, equality, and justice. These crafts create meaningful connections between history and personal expression, allowing students to honor the legacy of Black heroes while thinking critically about the past and the future.

By incorporating Black History Month crafts into classroom or home activities, educators and parents can cultivate a deeper understanding of the struggles and achievements of the Black community. These projects provide a platform for meaningful conversations about race, identity, and resilience while fostering respect for cultural diversity and pride in the progress we continue to make toward equality.

Be sure to follow along on social media for crafts during the month of February and all year long.

Black History Month Silhouette Craft for Kids