Black History Beyond the Month of October

The importance of celebrating diversity all year round

As the founder of Little Omo and a mother, I’ve come to appreciate that Black history needs to be taught beyond the confines of October. Black history is not just a series of isolated events but a crucial part of the wider narrative of world history. By teaching it year-round, we ensure that all children, whether Black, Brown or White, need to understand the contributions of Black individuals across all fields.

At Little Omo, our aim is to normalise diverse representation in children’s everyday learning at home and in school. Our products such as the Afro Hairstyles and Head Coverings flashcards, are designed to integrate Black culture into daily activities, making it more accessible and familiar to children. These are resources that parents and educators can use throughout the year to help young learners appreciate the beauty and significance of Black identity.

From my perspective as a mother, I’ve seen how empowering it is for children to see themselves in the materials they engage with. This is why teaching Black history beyond Black History Month is so important - it gives children a chance to celebrate themselves every day. It’s also a valuable opportunity for non-Black children to learn about diversity and grow up with an appreciation of different cultures.

Black history is too often seen as a single chapter in the story of the world, relegated to October for special acknowledgment. But when we explore Black history throughout the year, it becomes woven into the larger fabric of world history. Teaching children about Black scientists, artists, politicians and activists yearround demonstrates that the contributions of Black people aren’t peripheral but are integral to progress across all sectors. For parents and teachers, the importance of embedding these lessons into everyday life cannot be overstated - when we present Black history consistently, we allow children to develop a wider perspective of the world. We also help Black children to see their potential in a much more meaningful way, nurturing their aspirations by providing role models who share their background and experiences.

At Little Omo, we’ve built our brand around the belief that diverse education leads to empowered children: the materials we create are intentionally designed to be relevant all year - not just for Black History Month - and for all races. Our flashcards, for instance, teach basic skills like counting or spelling and introduce children to cultural references that often go unmentioned in mainstream educational resources. This helps children understand that there’s not just one way to look, dress or live, which is essential for fostering empathy and inclusion.

As parents, guardians and educators, we have a responsibility to create inclusive spaces where all children can see themselves represented. You don’t have to wait for October to come around to start teaching children about Black history. Whether it’s reading books by Black authors, learning about Black inventors or incorporating African and Caribbean art into lessons, there are countless ways to keep Black history alive in classrooms and at home. As a mother, I know that when children see themselves reflected in positive ways, their confidence grows. That’s why it’s essential for all parents and teachers to be intentional about including Black history in everyday learning. When children learn from an early age that Black voices matter, that they’ve always been part of shaping the world we live in, they develop a deeper sense of equality and fairness.

By teaching Black history all year, we help build a culture that values inclusivity. For Black children, this means seeing their heritage celebrated consistently: for non-Black children, it’s an opportunity to develop empathy and understanding for people who have different backgrounds and experiences. These lessons will stick with children as they grow, helping them navigate an increasingly diverse world with respect and open-mindedness.

As a business owner and a parent, I see first-hand the positive impact of yearround education on children’s confidence and worldview. It’s a vital part of global history that deserves recognition and exploration throughout the year. By making Black history an integral part of everyday learning, parents and teachers can help raise a generation that values diversity, equity and inclusion. Through tools like Little Omo’s products and consistent engagement with Black history, we can create an environment where all children feel seen, respected and empowered.

DESRIEE ASOMUYIDE CEO & Founder

www.littleomo.com