What is Kwanzaa?

Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration of African heritage and culture that is celebrated each year from December 26th to January 1st. It was founded in 1966 by Maulana Karenga and is based on African harvest celebrations, which have been celebrated since ancient times. Kwanzaa is a time for families to come together to reflect upon and celebrate African traditions, and to observe the seven principles of Kwanzaa.

The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa

The seven principles of Kwanzaa, known as Nguzo Saba, are the foundation of the celebration. Each principle has its own special meaning and is meant to be observed throughout the week. The seven principles are Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity), and Imani (faith).

Kwanzaa Activities for Preschoolers

Kwanzaa is a great opportunity for preschoolers to learn more about African heritage and culture. There are many fun activities that can be done to help preschoolers understand and celebrate the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Unity Activity

To teach preschoolers about Umoja (unity), have them make a unity mobile. Give each child a piece of construction paper and ask them to draw pictures of things that represent unity. They can draw pictures of family members, friends, classmates, or any other symbols of unity. Then, help them cut out their drawings and attach them to a piece of string. Hang the strings from a coat hanger or other object to create a mobile. Hang the mobile somewhere in the classroom to remind them of the importance of unity.

Self-Determination Activity

To teach preschoolers about Kujichagulia (self-determination), have them create self-portraits. Give each child a piece of paper and a variety of art supplies, such as crayons, markers, or paint. Ask them to draw a picture of themselves and to be creative with the colors and materials they use. As they work, ask them to think about what makes them unique and special. Hang up their portraits somewhere in the classroom and talk about the importance of being true to oneself.

Collective Work and Responsibility Activity

To teach preschoolers about Ujima (collective work and responsibility), have them work together on a group project. Give them a large piece of paper and ask them to draw a picture of their classroom. Ask them to draw themselves and their classmates, as well as any other features of the room. As they work, talk to them about how everyone must work together to complete the project. Hang the picture up somewhere in the classroom to remind them of the importance of working together.

Cooperative Economics Activity

To teach preschoolers about Ujamaa (cooperative economics), have them play a game of “buy and sell.” Give them a variety of “goods” such as paper, pencils, crayons, and markers. Ask them to trade the items with each other in order to get what they need. Talk to them about the importance of bartering and trading with each other in order to get what they need. This activity will help them understand the importance of cooperative economics.

Purpose Activity

To teach preschoolers about Nia (purpose), have them create “purpose” posters. Give each child a piece of construction paper and ask them to draw a picture of something they are passionate about. As they work, talk to them about why it’s important to have a purpose in life. Hang up their posters somewhere in the classroom to remind them of the importance of having a purpose.

Creativity Activity

To teach preschoolers about Kuumba (creativity), have them create an African-inspired art project. Give each child a variety of art supplies and ask them to create a masterpiece inspired by African culture. As they work, talk to them about how creativity is important in any culture. Hang up their artwork somewhere in the classroom to remind them of the importance of being creative.

Faith Activity

To teach preschoolers about Imani (faith), have them make a faith tree. Give each child a piece of construction paper and ask them to draw a tree with branches. Ask them to write or draw symbols of faith on the branches. As they work, talk to them about how faith is important and can help them through difficult times. Hang up the trees somewhere in the classroom to remind them of the importance of having faith.

Conclusion

Kwanzaa is a great opportunity for preschoolers to learn more about African heritage and culture. By engaging in activities that focus on the seven principles of Kwanzaa, preschoolers can further their understanding of African culture and the importance of unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.