International Women’s Day (IWD) is the perfect opportunity to teach young learners about equality, respect, and the achievements of women worldwide. In the primary classroom, we can make this important day both educational and inspiring through meaningful discussions, engaging activities, and hands-on learning experiences.
Why Teach International Women’s Day?
Children start forming ideas about gender roles early. By introducing International Women’s Day in the classroom, we encourage them to celebrate diversity, challenge stereotypes, and recognize the contributions of women in history and today’s world. Teaching about gender equality at a young age helps build a foundation of respect and inclusion.
How to Introduce International Women’s Day to Young Learners
Start with a Story
Picture books make complex topics accessible to young children. Read stories that feature strong female characters or real-life women who have made an impact. Some great choices include:
- Malala’s Magic Pencil by Malala Yousafzai
- Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World by Kate Pankhurst
- She Persisted by Chelsea Clinton
After reading, encourage students to discuss what they learned about the women in these books. Ask guiding questions such as, “What challenges did she face?” and “How did she make a difference?”
Highlight Women in Different Fields
Introduce students to women who have made history in science, sports, politics, and the arts.
Create a classroom display featuring women such as Marie Curie, Serena Williams, Amelia Earhart, and Frida Kahlo. Discuss their achievements and why their contributions matter.
Hands-On Activities
Make learning interactive with fun activities:
- Role Play: Assign students different historical female figures and have them present fun facts about their lives.
- Collage of Achievements: Let students cut out magazine pictures or draw women who inspire them and create a classroom collage.
- Letter Writing: Have students write letters to women they admire, whether it’s a famous figure or someone in their own lives.
Discuss Gender Equality in a Kid-Friendly Way
Use everyday examples to explain fairness and equality.
Discuss how boys and girls can enjoy the same activities, pursue any career, and share responsibilities at home and school.
Encourage students to think of ways they can promote fairness in their own lives.
Celebrate with an Art Project
Creativity helps children express their thoughts and emotions.
Have students create posters with positive messages about women’s achievements or design their own “Superhero Woman” character, imagining the qualities that make her powerful.
Make Every Day International Women’s Day
Teaching about gender equality shouldn’t stop on March 8th. Keep the conversation going year-round by incorporating diverse books and celebrating the achievements of women in history lessons. Encourage students to challenge stereotypes.
By making International Women’s Day engaging and interactive, we empower young learners to recognize and celebrate the contributions of women everywhere. Let’s inspire the next generation to create a more equal world!
Here are some fantastic Australian picture storybooks that promote the themes of International Women’s Day. They include gender equality, resilience, and female empowerment:
📚 Books About Inspiring Women
- “Shout Out to the Girls: A Celebration of Awesome Australian Women” – The Stella Prize
This book highlights trailblazing Australian women in various fields, from sports to science to activism. - “Amazing Australian Women: Twelve Women Who Shaped History” – Pamela Freeman & Sophie Beer
A beautifully illustrated book introducing young readers to incredible Australian women who made history. - “Wilam: A Birrarung Story” – Aunty Joy Murphy & Lisa Kennedy
This book highlights Indigenous knowledge and the role of women in caring for Country.
💪 Books That Empower Girls
- “Ada’s Violin: The Story of the Recycled Orchestra of Paraguay” – Susan Hood (Illustrated by Australian artist Sally Wern Comport)
An inspiring true story about a girl who follows her dreams despite obstacles. - “Girls Can Do Anything” – Caryl Hart & Ali Pye
This vibrant book encourages girls to dream big and break stereotypes. - “I Can Be Anything!” – Shinsuke Yoshitake
An empowering book that sparks imagination and shows that kids—especially girls—can pursue any career or dream.
🌏 Books About Equality & Inclusion
- “I’m a Girl!” – Yasmeen Ismail
A playful book that challenges gender stereotypes and celebrates individuality. - “I’m Australian Too” – Mem Fox
This book celebrates Australia’s multicultural heritage and the role of women and girls in different communities. - “The Spectacular Suit” – Kat Patrick & Hayley Wells
A heartwarming story about self-expression and breaking gender norms.
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