Colorful History

For African American homeschooling families, it is difficult to find a history curriculum that instills in our elementary-middle school aged, African-American children a sense of who they are both spiritually and historically.”

One homeschooling mother decided to write her own curriculum to fill the gap. I would like to introduce Belinda Bullard, who homeschools her three children, teaches college, writes curriculum, scrapbooks, sews, and manages a vibrant family. You can find out more about her Charlotte Mason style curriculum at her blog, Chronicles of a Blessed Heritage and at the curriculum site, A Blessed Heritage.

I learned from Belinda that in 1997 only one percent of homeschoolers were African Americans, but that percentage is growing exponentially. Just five years later, that figure was closer to 5 percent–and rising .

From Belinda’s blog she explains why she decided to write a curriculum for homeschool history:

“Upon careful study, I concluded my search disappointed.  Significant portions, if not all, of African-American history were missing from most Christian and/or literature-based curricula.  At best, there may have been a cursory mention of more prominent characters like Harriet Tubman, George Washington Carver, and perhaps Frederick Douglass.  Moreover, not only was the African-American experience ignored, but also the same was largely true of all people of color.  Too often the tragedy and triumph of the Native American, as an example, was overshadowed by the overabundance of literature on the life of the Pilgrim.  Americans of Asian and Spanish descent were not mentioned at all.   God gave me a vision to write this curriculum.”

The Blessed Heritage lessons are presented using a Charlotte Mason approach. Passages of literature present ideas. The parent encourages the children to reflect and document what has been read. One way of doing this is through journaling and timeline development.  The curriculum guide provides activities for auditory, visual, and kinesthetic learning.

In Belinda’s own words,

“I searched for literature that was uplifting and accurate in capturing the emotions of people of color (not just African-Americans).   I wanted books that were able to move the mind and heart, not just present facts.   It was, and is, important to me that the child who benefits from this curriculum not only can place people and events, but also gain an awareness of what a given experience felt like for the people involved.”

In consideration of the financial plight of many homeschooling families, Belinda reminds parents that most, if not all, of the books listed as needed resources are available in public libraries. Also, remember that books can be bought used at substantial savings. (NOTE from Julie @ Best Homeschool Buys: “I  recommend Paperback Swap as a great way to recycle your old books, and receive credit for new books that you may need for homeschool such as the books that are used in this history curriculum.”)

“It is my prayer that each one who uses A Blessed Heritage’s products will be enlightened and inspired by the stories told.  Most of all, regardless of the struggles that our people and all people encountered in building this great nation, we should be clear that, as Romans 8:28 exhorts us, ‘All things work together for good for them that love the Lord and are called according to His purpose’.  May God bless you richly.” Belinda Bullard

Belinda Bullard

One further note from Belinda about this curriculum:

“Julie,   this is such a wonderful blessing for me, and thank you!   The only thing I would add is that the curriculum isn’t just for elementary schooled students.   We have several products that were designed with middle school aged students in mind.    I appreciate your help in spreading the word.”

For additional information in African American homeschooling in general, see Best Homeschool Buys’ list of links and resources at African-American Homeschooling Resources.