Nick Initiates Black History Specials

Nickelodeon is celebrating Black History Month with a slate of programming focused on African-American traditions and history.

The kids’ network kicks off with four new spots featuring African-American kids weighing in on an array of subjects, including gospel music, soul food, jazz, Kwanzaa, black rodeo, African-American culture of the Outer Banks and Texas state holiday the Juneteenth Celebration. Among the kids is Just Jordan star Lil’ J.J., who will take viewers on a tour of his hometown, Little Rock, Ark.

Other interstitials -- produced in conjunction with sister network Noggin -- include six Nick News specials, beginning Feb. 2 and airing Wednesdays and Fridays at 6 a.m. (EST) on Cable in the Classroom.

The network will also air three 30-second interstitials featuring hand-clap rhymes by kids and profiles of George Washington Carver, Pulitzer Prize winner August Wilson and Mae Johnson, the first African-American woman to travel in space. The shorts will roll out simultaneously on Nick Jr. and Noggin and stream on Nick Jr. Video on NickJr.com.

NickJr.com is also offering 16 printable trading cards that feature notable African Americans from all walks of life, including Toni Morrison, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Nat King Cole, Shirley Chisholm, Beyoncé Knowles and Tiger Woods. And the site will offer new Black History Month-themed coloring pages, a suggested reading and DVD list and 10 Tips for Teaching Diversity, which will provide parents with insightful information to help them educate their children.

Nick Magazine currently features a Black History Month-themed calendar for the month of February, and Nick Jr. Family Magazine provides parents with a list of new children's books to read that celebrate Black History Month, as well as listings of Black History Month events in the Now Playing section.