Engaging Parents in Exploring South African History on Nelson Mandela Day

Nelson Mandela Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a national celebration of courage, compassion, hope, and a reminder that the power of one voice can lead to big changes in the world. For families, it is a wonderful opportunity to come together for meaningful interactions and bring South Africa’s history and multifaceted heritage to life in a way that their children can understand, value, and remember.  

For many children, especially in their early years, these concepts are best learned through the people closest to them. That’s why involving parents in conversations about South African history can make a powerful impact—not just on young learners but on the family at large. 

Let us now focus on what parents and caregivers can do to actively involve children in aspects of South African legacy of Nelson Mandela. Below are 8 inspiring and practical ways families can explore our heritage together, while honoring the legacy of Madiba. 

Madiba’s Legacy in the Eyes of a Preschooler

For very young children, Madiba’s legacy can be simplified into core values:  

• Kindness: Treat everyone with care and respect.  

• Fairness: Make sure everyone has a turn and is included.  

• Courage: Stand up for what is right, even when it’s hard.  

• Community: Help those around you and work together.  

1. Begin With Stories That Inspire 

Children are captivated by stories and often form deep connections with the characters. Parents can start with simple books or illustrated novels that portray Mandela’s journey, values, and achievements. Consider books like “Grandad Mandela” by Zindzi Mandela or “Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom” (children’s edition) for an age-appropriate introduction. 

2. Have Meaningful Family Movie Time  

A short film or documentary watched with family can kickstart intense discussions. Numerous child-friendly and age-appropriate options are centered around kindness, equality, and other crucial themes that embody Mandela's life-affirming values. 

3. Understand Freedom Through Music and Dance 

From the very start, music shaped the journey to freedom. Play songs from that time, dance together, and discuss what the lyrics might have meant back then. This simple activity helps children understand the emotions tied to history and the role of music in social movements. 

4. Indulge in Art and Craft Activities 

Get creative as a family and make handprint doves, peace posters, or a “freedom wall” with words like ubuntu, love, hope, kindness, and fairness. These hands-on projects help children reflect on the values Mandela embodied—in a joyful, play-based, interactive way. 

5. Practice Acts of Kindness Together 

Nelson Mandela Day is also a day of “call to action.” Families can perform easy acts of kindness in fun ways—by writing thank-you notes to educators and local helpers or planting saplings together. It’s a wonderful way to build social responsibility for young children. 

6. Donate and Share as a Unit 

Encourage your children to give meals to those who are homeless. Providing food for those in need teaches sharing and empathy. Ask them to donate gently used toys, clothing, or bedding to an orphanage, old-age home, or community center. You can also prepare care packages for local shelters together as a family.   

7. Build a Community Garden  

Collaborate with your neighbors to plant a communal garden or provide trees to a place in need. This activity teaches children about caring for the environment and giving back to the community—values that Mandela deeply cherished. 

8. Introduce the Idea of Social Justice 

Though not fully well, children do tend to start understanding the idea of fairness and social justice through what they see around them on a day-to-day basis. Use this wonderful day to talk about respect, inclusion, and the importance of ensuring that everyone is treated fairly and with dignity. 

Share age-appropriate stories of Madiba’s work and ask questions like: 

•  “How would you feel if your voice wasn’t heard?” 

•  “What can we do to help someone who’s feeling left out?” 

Children may find it challenging to begin with, but it is also a very significant step towards understanding one’s history and heritage. 

History may seem like an information overload for young children but with the right approach and early conversations, we can help lay the groundwork for a deeper understanding in interesting ways. With some research and patience, families can make this day a memorable one for children and educate them about the contributions of Nelson Mandela. We should take the onus of creating a future characterized by compassion, fortitude, and gratitude, after all. 

Let us make this day all about sharing stories, inspiring children, and adding meaning to their lives! Let us raise a young generation who understands where they come from and feels more empowered to create a wonderful future built on these values and life lessons.