Introduction
As International Women’s Day approaches, it’s the perfect time to develop the values of gender equality, empowerment, and respect in our youngest learners. This day provides an opportunity to teach preschoolers about the achievements of women throughout history and inspire them to dream big.
History of International Women’s Day
March 8th is a day to honor the achievements of women worldwide. In addition, it is a call to action toward gender equality. The day sources back to the early 20th-century women’s movement. The first National Woman’s Day was organized in the United States in 1909. Since then, it has grown into a global celebration, acknowledging the many contributions of women worldwide.
Quotes by Amazing Women
Here are some inspiring thoughts from women who have led the way in making things better and fairer for everyone:
- “Never limit yourself because of others’ limited imagination; never limit others because of your own limited imagination.” — Mae Jemison
- “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” — Alice Walker
- “Women are the real architects of society.” – Harriet Beecher Stowe
- “We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back.” – Malala Yousafzai
- “The seeds of success in every nation on Earth are best planted in women and children.” -Malawi Joyce Banda
- “All my life, I have maintained that the people of the world can learn to live together in peace if they are not brought up in prejudice.” -Josephine Baker
International Women’s Day Activities for Preschoolers:
- Read About Impactful Women: Read age-appropriate books about inspiring women.
- Standing on Her Shoulders: A Celebration of Women by Monica Clarck-Robinson
- She Persisted Around the World by Chelsea Clinton
- Girl Warriors: How 25 Young Activists Are Saving the Earth by Rachel Sarah
- HerStory: 50 Women and Girls Who Shook Up the World by Katherine Halligan
- We Got Game! 35 Female Athletes Who Changed the World by Aileen Weintraub
- Role Play: Encourage children to dress up as their favorite female role models and act out scenes from their lives or make-believe scenarios where they demonstrate courage and kindness.
- Create a Collage or Portrait: After reading about women who have impacted the world, provide materials for children to create art inspired by influential women. Materials could include magazines, construction paper, markers, crayons, glue, and scissors.
- Make It Personal: First, discuss the important roles women you know play. What does your child admire about these women? Are they community helpers, such as doctors, teachers, and firefighters? Are they kind, bold, thoughtful, outgoing? Consider writing a note to these women telling them what your family admires about them.
Conclusion
Ultimately, International Women’s Day offers an opportunity to teach preschoolers about the leaders around the world. As a result, they will learn to believe in themselves and their dreams.
Let’s celebrate International Women’s Day with our preschoolers. To honor the past, embrace the present, and inspire the next generation of change-makers and leaders.
Check out this year’s theme and learn more about International Women’s Day!