Teaching young students about Martin Luther King Jr. Day is incredibly important, but it can also feel challenging. Concepts like segregation and civil rights can be difficult for young children to fully grasp, especially when we’re asking them to understand a time long before they were born. With the right tools, stories, and activities, however, these big ideas can be taught in a way that is meaningful, respectful, and developmentally appropriate.
Start With a Kid-Friendly Video
One of my favorite ways to introduce Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is with a short video created by a young student. It explains his legacy in a simple, child-friendly way that students can truly understand. This is a wonderful conversation starter and helps set the stage for deeper learning throughout the week.
MLK Mini-Booklets for Little Learners
Mini-booklets are always a hit in my classroom! I like to print student copies in black and white and keep one color copy for myself to read aloud. These MLK mini-booklets were intentionally designed without page numbers, giving teachers the flexibility to print and use only the pages that best fit their students’ needs. They’re perfect for whole-group instruction, literacy centers, or independent work.
A Must-Read Aloud: Martin’s Big Words
One of my all-time favorite MLK read-alouds is Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport. This powerful picture book brings Dr. King’s message to life using many of his own words. It beautifully highlights his strength as a speaker and his role as an influential leader.
After reading the book, I love showing the video version and asking students to listen closely for Martin’s “big words.” Together, we create a word web on the board, and students copy those powerful words into their own work. This is a great way to build vocabulary while reinforcing comprehension.
“I Have a Dream” Writing and Craftivity
Students can then create their own “I Have a Dream” mini handprint booklets. I emphasize that their dreams should focus on making the world a better place—not just wishes for themselves. After completing their books, students love sharing their ideas with classmates, which leads to thoughtful and meaningful discussions.
Using Music to Inspire Change
Another favorite MLK week activity is teaching the song “With My Own Two Hands” by Ben Harper (the video version sung by Jack Johnson works beautifully for kids). Music is such a powerful way to reinforce Dr. King’s message.
Students brainstorm ways they can make the world a better place with their own two hands, share ideas with a thinking partner, and practice reading the song lyrics. They color their hands using flesh-tone crayons and write a sentence explaining how they can help make a difference. Volunteers can share their writing with the class when finished.
Interactive Timelines and Digital Options
For a hands-on history activity, students complete an easy cut-and-paste MLK timeline. This activity is also available as a ready-to-use digital version on Easel, complete with a self-checking feature. (And yes—Easel is free on Teachers Pay Teachers!)
Differentiated Writing, Crafts, and More
This resource includes a wide range of writing prompts with primary and secondary lined paper, making differentiation simple. You’ll also find poems, songs, “Pathway to Freedom” mazes, and a meaningful craftivity featuring hands holding the globe. Many activities are available in both black-and-white and color versions to suit your printing needs.
If you’re looking for engaging, low-prep, and meaningful MLK Day activities for kindergarten and early elementary students, you can grab this resource [here in my store].
I’d love to know—what is your favorite MLK book or video to share with students? Please leave a comment below and share your ideas!
