Celebrating Juneteenth with Kids
Honoring Juneteenth as a Family
As a reminder, WHPS and Camp Woodland Hills will be closed on Wednesday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth, the newest federal holiday in the United States. WHPS observes all federal holidays, and this marks our country’s fifth official Juneteenth celebration since it was signed into law in 2021.
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day when the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned they were free—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued. It’s a day to reflect on a painful chapter in our history, to honor Black resilience and liberation, and to recommit ourselves to building a more just and inclusive future.
Since Juneteenth is a holiday many of us didn’t grow up celebrating, it’s worth taking a moment to pause and reflect—What does this day mean? Why does it matter? And how can we honor it with our children in ways that are meaningful and age-appropriate?
Here are a few gentle ways to engage with Juneteenth as a family:
🌟 Ways to Honor the Day as a Family
📚 Read a story together
Books can be a powerful way to open the conversation. Here are a few to consider:
All Different Now: Juneteenth, the First Day of Freedom by Angela Johnson (ages 5–9)
Juneteenth for Mazie by Floyd Cooper (ages 4–8)
The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander (ages 6+)
Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem by Amanda Gorman (ages 4+)
Freedom in Congo Square by Carole Boston Weatherford (ages 5–8)
A Flag for Juneteenth by Kim Taylor (ages 6–10)
🎥 Watch a short film or video together
Visual stories can help make history more accessible for children:
🎥 What Is Juneteenth? | Interesting Facts for Students – A kid-friendly animated short (approx. 4 minutes, plus some additional material) that clearly explains Juneteenth’s origin—from Emancipation to freedom in Texas. Recommended for ages 8–12; perfect for family viewing and sparking meaningful conversation
What is Juneteenth (Molly of Denali, PBS Kids) – A short, engaging video that introduces children to the history and meaning of Juneteenth, explaining how it commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Best for ages 6–10.
Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free (Read Aloud) – A read-aloud of a moving Juneteenth story (ages 5+)
Netflix: “We the People” – Short animated music videos about civic themes, including justice and equity (best for ages 7+)
🎨 Create art about fairness and freedom
Invite your child to draw or paint what fairness means to them—or create a symbol of unity, hope, or liberation.
🗣 Talk about justice and empathy
Even simple conversations can have a big impact. Try asking:
What does it feel like when something isn’t fair? How can we help others feel included and respected?
🍓 Enjoy a red-themed treat
Many families celebrate Juneteenth with red foods, symbolizing strength and joy. Even something simple—like red berries or punch—can become part of your family’s way of marking the day.
We’re proud to be part of a school and camp community that values inclusion, empathy, and learning.
Wishing you and your family a meaningful Juneteenth. We’ll see you back at camp on Friday, June 20!
