Harmony Day Crossword
A fun and interactive way to introduce young people to key concepts of Harmony Week, this crossword created by Harmony.gov.au encourages young people to think about words related to diversity, respect, and cultural understanding. As the young ones work through the puzzle, consider asking follow-up questions such as, “Why do you think respect is a key part of harmony?” or “Can you think of a time when you learned something interesting from another culture?”
Harmony Journal
Writing is a fantastic way to encourage reflection and deeper thinking. This journal activity can help children process their thoughts on inclusivity and respect. The prompts allow children to express their feelings, while serving as a reflective way to consider how we can create a more harmonious world together.
Harmony Journal
DownloadEveryone Belongs Craft
This craft from harmony.gov.au will help young people celebrate the beauty of different cultures and that everyone belongs. Fostering appreciation for different perspectives, this creative activity will strengthen young people’s understanding of belonging while being a lot of crafty fun!
Books to Read this Harmony Day
Happy in our Skin
Celebrating different skin tones and the wonder of skin itself, this joyful book shows young readers that every person’s skin is unique and pretty amazing! With its rhythmic text and warm illustrations, this story encourages children to appreciate the wonderful diversity around them while embracing self-love.
Ages 3+
All About Diversity
A bright and engaging picture book that introduces young readers to the concept of diversity in an age-appropriate way. Covering different family structures, languages, abilities, and cultures, ‘All About Diversity’ is about treating everyone with kindness, because everyone belongs!
Ages 3+
The Boy who Tried to Shrink his Name
Jump into the world of a boy named Zimdalamashkerm, who struggles with having a name that others find difficult to pronounce. This moving story highlights the importance of embracing one’s identity and the power that comes with self-acceptance. Inviting conversations about the significance of names and respect for cultural identities, the book touches on how we can create a more inclusive world by learning about and appreciating each other’s differences.
Ages 3+
We Are Australians
Touching on Indigenous Australian heritage, migration, and shared hopes for the future, this poetic book explores what it truly means to be Australian. It’s an inspiring read that acknowledges the past while encouraging young readers to think about how they can contribute to a united community that celebrates diversity. With beautiful images and simple yet meaningful text, the picture book will inspire readers of all ages.
Ages 4+
The Proudest Blue
Join Faizah for her first day of school, but that's not the only exciting thing about today - it's her older sister's first day of hijab! This book beautifully portrays identity and standing proud in the face of misunderstanding. It provides an excellent opportunity to talk about different cultural and religious expressions and why respect always important.
Ages 5+
Stand Up and Speak Out Against Racism
This empowering book provides practical advice on how to recognise and challenge racism in everyday life. It’s an important read for older children who are beginning to navigate more complex social dynamics. The book explores big ideas by presenting them simply and equips young readers with tools, knowledge and confidence to stand up for themselves and others in the face of injustice.
Ages 9+
The Kindness Project
A compelling novel about how small acts of kindness can create big changes, this story follows a group of kids who start a kindness movement in their school. Showing the power of inclusion, empathy, and standing together, this is a fantastic book for inspiring young people to take action in their own lives and communities.
Ages 10+
Harmony Week is a time to celebrate and reflect on the importance of diversity and inclusion. By engaging young people through activities and stories, we can help them develop a deeper understanding of the world around them and empower them to create a more inclusive future. It’s important to continue these conversations beyond Harmony Week, ensuring that respect and kindness are values we uphold all year round.
