National Reconciliation Week 2021: More Than A Word
As a community, it is important for us to show love and support to one another and value cultural diversity. National Reconciliation Week is a wonderful opportunity for us to do just that and learn more about Indigenous culture and its ongoing impact. Between May 27 – June 3, let’s make a conscious effort to learn about, and acknowledge, the traditional custodians of the land.
We recognise that reconciliation is more than just a word – it is an action. Here are some easy ways to teach little people to have a greater understanding of the role that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples play in our community, and the history of the first people of this nation.
LEARN AND GROW!
We have created an Acknowledgement of Country puzzle for little ones to practise gratitude. Simply cut out the puzzle pieces and write what you are grateful to do on this land and piece it all back together! Encourage your little ones to reflect on what they wrote and show respect to our first nations people who have cared for and nurtured the land we are privileged to live on today.
Have a go at our Gratitude and Learning worksheet! Fill in the blanks and get thinking about the impact of Indigenous culture. Learn more about traditional land ownership through the Map of Indigenous Australia, which attempts to represent the language or nation groups in Australia through general locations.
GETTING CRAFTY
Colouring in a classic craft activity for every age! Indigenous artist Jessica Johnson designed this year’s National Reconciliation Week poster, and there is a colouring in sheet to go with it! Access the Action Artwork Guide here and learn about some of the elements in the artwork.
Embracing diversity means we recognise that everyone has something unique and important to offer – we are all a part of the whole. Grab some coloured paper in neutral tones and weave them together to make our Diversity Circle to represent the cultures in our country. Take a look at our Instagram page to see an example!
GOOD READS
Stories are a universal way of teaching and learning and are particularly meaningful in Aboriginal culture. Some of the books we are loving right now that help share Indigenous perspectives are Stolen Girl and Tell Me Why. Some other great reads from our resource library are Big Rain Coming, Collecting Colour, and Little Bird’s Day. Click here for more must-have books!
Dreaming stories are also incredibly valuable for helping children learn about Aboriginal culture. Read more here about guidelines for sharing these stories.
We acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which we stand, recognise that this has always been a place of teaching and learning. Together, let’s continue to be committed to listening, learning, and growing in our understanding of Indigenous culture and the role it plays in our communities.
