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childrens books

7 mins read

Mompreneur is Teaching Kids About The Africa They Don’t Learn About In School

Teni & Tayo Creations produces STEM kits, toys, books, apparel, and more for kids.

The business is on a mission to help close the representation gap in the products made for kids while creating fun and engaging products that any child can enjoy.

We caught up with founder Omobola Imoisili to learn more.

Teni & Tayo Creations
Omobola Imoisili

What inspired you to start your business?

I was born and raised in Nigeria and was always surrounded by people that looked like me, but now I’m raising 2 young daughters in California, and we are a minority.

After my girls were born it didn’t take long for me to notice the lack of representation in the everyday things for kids, but also the lack of awareness when it came to African culture and history.

Most people only think of poverty and war when they think of Africa, but I wanted my daughters to feel proud of their heritage and to know that there is more to Africa than that.

That’s when I decided to start something on my own.  My hope is that the products I create appeal to children from all ethnic groups, while at the same allowing black and African children to feel more empowered, and proud to be who they are.

What is special about the way you teach kids about Africa?

I incorporate hands-on activities into the learning process which makes the learning so much fun. Each month I send subscribers a box of crafts inspired by Africa. They’ll make things like a mechanical safe while they learn about King Mansa Musa.

They’ll make a wooden thatch house while they learn about the Ndebele tribe. They’ll make a loom while they learn about African fabrics and so much more. It is the most fun way for kids to learn about Africa! Learn more at teniandtayo.com/subscribe

Why do you think it is important to teach kids about Africa?

Research shows that when children learn about their cultural heritage, they are emotionally healthier and have a better sense of self. I believe that when children are confident in who they are and emotionally healthy, they will grow up to create strong communities and influence the change we want to see in the future.

In other words, kids learning about Africa will make the world a better place!

What kinds of topics do you cover with the subscription box?

We cover a variety of topics! One month we did a country profile on Ghana, another month we discussed the Dahomey warriors and the Woman King movie by Viola Davis, and another month we talked about King Mansa Musa, the richest man who ever lived.

Each box comes with a tutorial video and each month we donate a portion of the proceeds to charities helping people in need in Africa and the diaspora. Our goal is to showcase all the wonderful culture and history that Africa has to offer and instill a sense of pride in the minds of the little kids who subscribe.

How do you decide what to include in your subscription box?

I teach a STEM robotics class and an African Folktales class, very different topics, I know. However, I get a lot of ideas from those two classes on what to put in the box. Many (not all) of the things in the subscription box are STEM toys (e.g., we’ve done a mechanical safe and a glowing house) so interacting with the kids in the STEM class helps to vet and test some of the things that go in the box. And by teaching the African folktales class, I learn what kids find interesting and build content around that for the subscription box.

What other products do you offer?

We offer a range of STEM and educational toys. All our products have a pinch of African influence because representation matters, and it is very important to us. Our most popular product is a kit where kids get to build their own solar powered car. It has a black superhero on the box. And yes, it works!

What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs?

My advice is to pull a Nike and “Just Do It.” If you have an idea, don’t waste too much time thinking about the obstacles. Instead, focus on the steps that you need to take in order to get to your end goal.

Break into smaller manageable chunks if you need do. But don’t wait. Also, do not be afraid to adapt and change based on what is working and not working. Business is hard and being flexible is important to survival.

What are your future goals for Teni & Tayo Creations?

My goal is for Teni and Tayo Creations to be known as the go to place for fun and educational toys and activities for kids that empower and inspire. And through my products and services, I would love for Teni & Tayo to help change the narrative of Africa and inspire the next generation of leaders to work together to improve Black communities across the world.

@Tony O. Lawson

2 mins read

Uplifting Children’s Books Written By Black Authors

In recent years, more Black authors have received prestigious awards and earned spots on bestseller lists. Although there is still much work to be done, I am grateful that more Black authors are getting the exposure that they deserve.

Here is a selection of children’s books by Black authors available on Amazon. And because these recommendations are just the tip of the iceberg, we’ll keep adding to this list.

ABC I Love Me by Miriam Muhammad

ABC I Love Me takes Black children along for a journey of self love, confidence, and adventure while teaching young learners positive affirmations for each letter of the alphabet. This book encourages children to accept their unique qualities and promotes positive self-esteem and a healthy lifestyle.

Dream Big Little One by Vashti Harrison

Black Authors

Featuring 18 trailblazing black women in American history, “Dream Big, Little One” is the irresistible board book adaptation of Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History. The leaders in this book may be little, but they all did something big and amazing, inspiring generations to come.

Emi’s Curly Coily, Cotton Candy Hair by Tina Olajide

Emi is a creative 7-year-old girl with a BIG imagination. In this story, Emi shares a positive message about her Curly, Coily, Cotton Candy Hair and what she likes most about it. The vibrant illustrations and fun story teach basic natural hair care techniques and tips in a playful and memorable way.

I Believe I Can by Grace Byers

Black Authors

From the #1 New York Times bestselling creators of “I Am Enough” comes an empowering follow-up that celebrates every child’s limitless potential. “I Believe I Can” is an affirmation for boys and girls of every background to love and believe in themselves.

I’m A Little King: Positive Affirmations for Black and Brown Boys by Sharifa Brown

Black Authors

For far too long, little Black and Brown boys have been made to feel inferior and unimportant. “I’m a Little King” is a short, rhythmic, and beautifully illustrated children’s book for ages 2-7 aimed at improving the self-esteem and self-confidence of Black and Brown boys. 

 

1 min read

Black Owned Brands for Children and Babies

In a world where diversity and representation matter, it’s essential to shine a spotlight on the incredible array of Black owned brands for children and babies. From clothing that’s as stylish as it is comfortable, to toys that spark imagination, this curated list is a celebration of excellence, creativity, and innovation.

These brands, each with a unique story to tell, are at the forefront of redefining children’s fashion, play, and comfort. Check them out, support them, and let us know which others should be added!

Black Owned Brands for Children and Babies

Step Stitches

Le Petit Elle

Royal Babies & Tots

Pooters Diapers

Fun Science Kit

Gabby Bows

The Fresh Dolls

Black Owned Brands for Children

Brave + Kind Bookshop

Swimma

black owned brands for children

Beautiful Curly Me

Black Owned Brands for Children

HBCU Pride & Joy Boutique

Breukelyn Threads

Cozy N Cute Kids Boutique

Ade + Ayo

Puzzle Huddle

Chez Bébé 

Kaba Baby

Neon Kisses

Little Mavericks

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