March 1st marks the start of Women’s History Month. The idea for Women’s History Month originally started in 1978 when the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women, in California, initiated Women’s History Week. In 1980, with the help of the National Women’s History Alliance, the celebration of women’s history spread throughout the country. Then, President Carter declared a National Women’s History Week. Just a few years later, in 1987, Congress declared March as National Women’s History Month. A month dedicated to honoring and recognizing the achievements and accomplishments of women.
The purpose of celebrating Women’s History Week and now Women’s History Month is to bring attention to women’s history. Up until the 1970’s, women’s history was an unspoken topic, and women were rarely mentioned in educational settings. All too often, the contributions and achievements of women are overlooked. Celebrating women’s history month provides a space to recognize and applaud women for their accomplishments as well as to bring awareness to the continued fight for women’s rights and gender equality.
The Importance of Women’s History
Even in 2026, women’s history is still important to learn and to teach. Prioritizing the teaching of women’s history to kids helps break down gender stereotypes, foster inclusivity, and can even inspire confidence in young learners. With stories that showcase the diverse and often hard-fought successes of women, children learn about courage, perseverance, and are empowered to pursue their own goals.
Women’s history is important to both boys and girls alike, but can be life changing for young girls. Learning about the history of women who came before them helps little girls by providing them with relatable and powerful female role models. These heroines’ stories help promote confidence and encourage kids to understand their full worth and capabilities.
International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day(IWD) is an important component of Women’s History Month that is celebrated annually on March 8th. First started in 1911, this year marks the 115th celebration of International Women’s Day. IWD is a global celebration of the “social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.” Additionally, it is a call to action for accelerating gender equality. This year’s theme is ‘Give to Gain’ and is a reminder that “when we give, we gain.” This theme focuses on the power of support and the idea that everyone is empowered when women and girls are provided the support they need.
IWD is a great introduction for kids to understand the importance of Women’s History Month. The IWD website has school resources to educate children about gender equality and challenging gender stereotypes. Some activities to celebrate include writing and reading about women/girls who overcame challenges, drawing women/girls you respect, and discussing human rights topics.
Celebrating with Kids
IWD is a great way to introduce kids to Women’s History Month, but is by no way the only way for kids to celebrate. Throughout the month there are many activities for kids to participate in. Here are just a few:
- Virtual Tours at the National Women’s History Museum
- Watch online videos about notable women
- Read books that are written and/or illustrated by women
- Create crafts to honor historical heroines
- Send thank you notes to women who have an impact (mom’s, sisters, teachers, etc.)
- Complete classroom worksheets like coloring pages, wordsearches, and trivia quizes
- Discuss equality and inclusivity
Molly Murphy MacGregor, co-founder and former executive director of the National Women’s History Alliance once said, “Women’s history isn’t just about what happened in the past; it’s about empowering future generations to understand their worth and their place in shaping the world.” History is an important tool for future success.
Celebrating Women’s History Month and the achievements of women around the world is one more way to help create a better future. Parent and childcare workers can use tools provided through ChildWatch to stay involved and active in supporting child education and learning about the amazing women in our world.