10. Using educational sites, both physical and online
During lockdowns such as in the spring of 2020, visiting America’s historical sites, all of which possess learning aids for students of all ages, is impossible. Yet nearly all offer learning aids online, for students of all ages. The same is true for organizations dedicated to America’s history, including the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. Relying on the National Park Service and the Smithsonian for lessons and activities opens many little-known nuances of American history to the public. In addition to the National Park Service sites, all states maintain historical sites and parks, most of which include an online presence for at least some services and displays.
America’s Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) offered a program designed to deliver lessons on character from historical figures in 2019. Entitled Xavier Riddle and the Mystery Museum, the cartoon children serving as the main characters meet with the child versions of historical figures, and learn life lessons from them. Amelia Earhart, George Washington Carver, and Helen Keller are among the characters they meet. From them, even pre-school children can learn small aspects of history, in a manner designed to appeal to them, since the characters are themselves, small children, with limited attention spans and a desire to have fun.