Equity in Early Childhood Education: MLK Day Preschool Activities

January is the ideal time to highlight equity in early childhood with Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 20) and the International Day of Education (January 24). Zero to Three, a national research-based organization focused on early childhood development, defines equity in early childhood as occurring when “children in any space have the same opportunities regardless of their race, location, physical or mental abilities, income, or background.” 

But what does that mean for families and teachers hoping to champion equity in early childhood?  

At Denver Preschool Program, we believe centering in equity starts with growing our knowledge. In that spirit, we offer the following resources to foster equity in early childhood education this month and throughout the year. 

MLK Day Activities for Preschoolers In Denver

Martin Luther King Jr. advocated for equity in all facets of education and life. An estimated 250,000 people gathered in Washington, D.C., to witness his historic “I Have a Dream Speech.” Four of the most important people in the audience that day were his young children. It was one of his many impactful speeches and acts of peaceful advocacy. Today, we honor his leadership and legacy on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which falls on Monday, January 20, 2025.  

Whether at home or in the classroom, enjoy a handful of MLK Day-inspired activities for preschoolers in the Denver area: 

• Mile High Mamas highlights several MLK-Day events, community service opportunities, exhibits, and programs taking place throughout Denver around and on January 20, 2025.
• Preschool Plan It offers creative MLK Day-themed activities for teachers to use in the classroom and for families to try at home. 
• This Montisori-themed Pinterest collection offers 65 MLK-themed crafts, ideas, and activities for preschoolers. 
• While geared toward children who are kindergarteners and older, the National Education Association’s Learning and Living the Legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. website page offers an array of lesson plans and ideas for educators, many of which could be adapted for preschoolers. 
• Rocky Mountain PBS Kids offers an array of resources for families and teachers. The Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood episode, “Daniel Finds Out What’s Fair/O Finds Out What’s Fair” highlights how kids with various abilities and backgrounds need different things to have a fair opportunity. 
• Sesame Street: Martin Luther King Jr. Day explains what it means to be kind, respectful, and work and play together peacefully. 
• This PBS Learning Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Video gives a great overview of Martin Luther King Jr. and his philosophy for civil rights. 
• Looking for a fun adventure with your preschooler on MLK Day? Visit a National Park or Monument for free. 
• The King Center offers a variety of resources to educate children about Martin Luther King Jr. and inspire community in the classroom. 
• Read Brightly outlines a robust list of picture books that can help preschoolers learn about MLK and his legacy. 

MLK Day 2025 and Inauguration Day

This year, MLK Day coincides with the Inauguration Day of President-Elect Donald Trump. Dr. King’s daughter, Dr. Bernice King, shared on Instagram that she believes people should both honor her father and be informed about the inauguration. As she posted, even if you cannot watch the inauguration live, reading the transcript or watching a video will help everyone stay informed. “We cannot develop a love-centered strategy for addressing language and legislation if we are not also strategic in our listening and leadership,” she posted. “This is not the time for ignorance.” 

Wondering how to explain the United States Presidential inauguration to your children? This video from Twinkl outlines the basics of Inauguration Day. 

International Day of Education: Ways to Make Education More Equitable

On the heels of MLK Day is the International Day of Education on January 24th. Established by the United Nations General Assembly, the day celebrates education as a fundamental human right. Education provides opportunities to break the cycle of poverty, but many children around the world, particularly those from marginalized communities, still face barriers to accessing quality education. On International Day of Education, commit to taking action to make early education equitable; here are a few ideas:  

• Zero to Three offers resources for families, educators, and organizations to create change toward more equitable early childhood education. 
• National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) provides a variety of recommendations for families, educators, early care and education administrators, and policymakers to move the needle on making early education more equitable. 
• For nearly 20 years, Denver Preschool Program has supported educators, families, and leaders in making early childhood education more equitable. Learn about our commitment to equity.  And share information about DPP tuition support with all Denver families–our tuition support is given on a sliding scale based on income, ensuring those with the least resources receive the most support in lowering their preschool costs.