Black History Month events for kids this weekend

Thursday February 14, 2013 5:40 PM By Kristin Taveira

Photo credit: Handout | Kids of every color can celebrate their differences and similarities at a reading and book signing of "I Love The Skin I'm In" by children's author Mayma Raphael.

Looking for ways children can celebrate Black History Month? Kids can learn about an important African-American role model at a story walk, make crafts to commemorate historical figures and hear a reading and meet the author of a book about skin color and identity as seen through a child’s eyes. Find all the details here.

Sunday: Story walk in White Plains

Families with children in grades 1-6 can learn all about how a heroic act by an African-American firehouse cook earned her a place in women’s history as the nation’s first female firefighter. Follow the self-paced walk and read the story, “Molly, by Golly! The Legend of Molly Williams, America’s First Female Firefighter,” written by Dianne Ochiltree and illustrated by Kathleen Kemly.

When: During library hours, Sunday, Feb. 17-Sunday, Mar. 17

Info: White Plains Public Library, 100 Martine Ave., White Plains; 914-422-1476; calendar.whiteplainslibrary.org; free

Monday: Author reading and book signing in White Plains

Kids of all colors are invited to celebrate their differences and similarities with Mayma Raphael, the author of “I Love the Skin I’m In.” Raphael will begin the program with a simple demonstration of a positive message: Using a bowl of different-colored apples, she’ll show her young audience how alike the fruits are, despite their different skin colors. Then she’ll read her book, which was illustrated by Haily Cryan. The interactive program also will feature a book signings, coloring and other activities. The program is 45-60 minutes long and will to appeal to kids ages 3-8.

When: 3:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 18

Info: Barnes and Noble, City Center, 230 Main St., White Plains; 914-397-2420; store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/event/4190636

Tags: White Plains , Haverstraw , Westchester , Black History Month , events , kids