Our nation’s efforts toward children’s education have pivoted to remote learning in light of COVID-19. The pandemic has left millions of children in America sheltered-in-place as they rely on their parents and instructors to guide them through this difficult time.

In an effort to ease the burden, The National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI) is taking National Black Child Development Week virtual to make the most of homeschooling.

The annual celebration — held May 11-15 — raises community awareness about important issues impacting Black children and families.

According to the NBCDI, this year marks the observant week’s 50th anniversary as it pivots to an all-digital platform with Zoom-powered workshops, seminars, and free Instagram Live sessions to focus on homeschooling, the Black economy, mental health, and more.

The NBCDI has previously made it a point to call attention to mental health awareness in the Black community.

Their website reveals that among their career achievements, they’ve been able to examine the impact of early childhood adversity on the physical and mental health outcomes of Black men.

For nearly half a century, the National Black Child Development Institute has led the charge of engaging leaders, policymakers, professionals, and parents in regard to these matters.

As a trusted source in delivering culturally relevant resources, they help acknowledge the needs of Black families by providing tools for early childhood education, health, child welfare, literacy, and family engagement.

“Nothing will stop us from supporting Black children,” said Tobeka G. Green, president and CEO of NBCDI, in a press release. “We have reallocated and customized our resources and support to foster uninterrupted learning gains and optimal well-being.”

Each day kicks off at noon and ends at 4:30 p.m. with a daily Homeschooling Happy Half-Hour for children and families to promote learning through play, dance, performance arts, and other creative outlets.

Speakers for the series of live events include Marley Dias, teen activist and founder of #1000BlackGirlBooks; David G. Clunie, Executive Director of the Black Economic Alliance; Angela F. Williams, president & chief executive officer of Easterseals; award-winning photographer, activist, author, and founder of Because of Them We Can, Eunique Jones Gibson, and many more.

The digital events are open to everyone on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Participants can register here and take a look at this complete schedule to attend.

NBCDI

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