Introduction
If you’ve ever walked through the streets of West London during August, you know that Notting Hill Carnival is more than just a parade — it’s a vibrant celebration of culture, music, family, and identity. But for many families, especially those outside of the Caribbean diaspora, this iconic event is still unfamiliar. So how do we introduce children to something so rich, joyful, and meaningful?
Books are a wonderful place to start.
Whether you're from the Caribbean or just exploring world cultures, teaching children about Notting Hill Carnival helps them appreciate diversity, celebrate heritage, and understand the history behind one of the largest street festivals in Europe.
📚 Why Use Books to Teach About Carnival?
Children are natural explorers, and storytelling is one of the most effective ways to nurture curiosity and empathy. A well-crafted picture book not only teaches facts — it also helps kids emotionally connect with traditions that might be different from their own.
With vivid illustrations and relatable characters, a story about Carnival can bring steel pan music, vibrant costumes, and Afro-Caribbean pride to life right from the pages of a book.
Featured Book: Grandma, What’s That? Notting Hill Carnival
If you're looking for the perfect way to introduce your little ones (ages 3–7) to Carnival, Grandma, What’s That? Notting Hill Carnival is a beautiful choice.
In this story, a loving grandmother takes her grandchild on a joyful journey through the sights, sounds, and spirit of Carnival. Children will learn about:
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The history of Caribbean migration to the UK
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The music of steel bands and soca
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The cultural roots behind the parade
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The importance of family and community
This book isn’t just educational — it’s a celebration of Caribbean culture in the heart of London.
🥁 What Makes Notting Hill Carnival So Special?
Notting Hill Carnival began in the 1960s as a way for the Caribbean community in London to honour their heritage, stand up against racism, and create a joyful, inclusive space. Today, it draws over 2 million people annually and is one of the biggest street festivals in the world.
For children, it’s a chance to:
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See themselves represented
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Learn about resilience and pride
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Connect with history in a fun, relatable way
Even if you can’t attend the Carnival in person, books like Grandma, What’s That? help kids experience the magic from home or school.
Tips for Parents & Educators
Want to extend the learning beyond the book? Here are a few fun ideas:
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Play Carnival music (steel pan, calypso, soca)
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Create your own mini parade at home or in the classroom
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Make simple Carnival crafts like feathered masks or flags
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Talk about cultural identity and why it’s important to honor your roots
These interactive moments help reinforce what children learn in the story.
🌍 Final Thoughts
The world is full of beautiful cultures and traditions, and it's never too early to teach kids to embrace them. By reading stories like Grandma, What’s That? Notting Hill Carnival, we give our children the tools to be more open-minded, joyful, and proud — of themselves and others.
So this August, whether you're waving a flag at the Carnival or reading at home, remember: every child deserves to see the world in full colour.