Teaching the Holocaust is one of the most difficult subjects that teachers tackle in their classrooms. Holocaust Remembrance Day marks the anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration camp, and there is no better day to learn about this tragic part of history. Here are three ways to observe this day of remembrance with your students.
Watch Survivor Documentaries
An accessible way to learn about and remember the Holocaust is to watch survivor documentaries. You can find documentaries online or on DVD from your school’s library. Public televisions stations also show Holocaust documentaries often, so check your local station’s programming schedule.
Visit a Museum
A field trip to a Holocaust museum is a great way to pay respect and tribute to the victims and survivors while learning about their stories. If there is no museum near your school, look for one that offers interactive virtual visits online.
Host Survivors in Your Classroom
One of the best ways to observe Holocaust Remembrance Day is to host survivors or their descendants in your classroom. You can invite them to visit in-person, or schedule a virtual talk. Jewish community centers are great resources for finding survivors who are willing to speak to your class.
Are you looking for educational programs and online resources to help teach your students about the Holocaust? The ZACHOR Holocaust Remembrance Foundation was founded by a Holocaust survivor to spread awareness, remembrance and tolerance. Learn more at https://www.zachorfoundation.org.