To support history at home, encourage activities that show change over time such as comparing historical toys or foods with modern ones, and explore family history through interviews or looking at old photos together. You can also engage children with historical events through fun activities such as making a model castle, cooking a historic dish, watching themed shows like Horrible Histories, or researching local history. Websites from organizations like National Geographic Kids, and the Historical Association offer further resources and activity ideas. 

Hands-On History Activities

• Compare everyday objects:

  Compare items from the past, such as toys or household items, with their modern counterparts to help children understand change over time. 

• Explore family history:

  Ask children to interview grandparents about their childhood or look through old family photographs to see how life has changed. 

• Create historical artifacts:

  Use junk modelling to build historical buildings or monuments, or design and make a costume from a specific era. 

• Cook historic dishes:

  Find simple recipes for historical dishes and cook them with your child to experience food from the past. 
   

Engaging with Historical Content

• Watch educational shows:

  Watch historical documentaries, shows like CBBC's Horrible Histories, or explore resources on National Geographic Kids to make learning fun and accessible. 

• Visit museums and historical sites:

  If possible, visit local museums or historical sites to give children a real-world experience of history. 

• Discuss historical events:

  When watching the news or special events like VE Day or Black History Month, discuss the historical significance of these moments with your child. 
   

Key Concepts to Emphasise

• Chronology:

  Help children understand the order of events and the concept of time passing. 

• Change Over Time:

  Focus on how things like toys, technology, and daily life have changed from one era to another. 

• Significance:

  Discuss why certain events or people were important and how they impacted the world.