Indigenous Peoples Day is a special occasion to honor the rich cultures, traditions, and histories of Native American communities. For elementary kids, it's a chance to learn, appreciate, and celebrate the diversity and contributions of indigenous peoples. Here are the top 10 best ways to teach elementary kids about Indigenous Peoples Day.
1. Storytelling Sessions: Start with captivating stories about Native American legends, folklore, and history. Encourage kids to ask questions and discuss what they've learned. Reading age-appropriate books featuring indigenous characters is a fantastic way to begin.
Here is a great book from a Cherokee author.
The Creator gave the Cherokee people a beautiful island with everything they could ever need. It came with only one rule: They must take care of the land and the animals living there. But what happens when the children decide to play with the turtles instead of tending to their responsibilities?
2. Interactive Art and Crafts: Engage kids in creative activities like making dreamcatchers, pottery, or beadwork. These hands-on crafts allow them to explore Native American art forms and express their creativity.
If you decide to read the turtle story with the kids, here is a turtle craft that goes with it that also teaches children the fundamentals of basketweaving.
3. Cultural Demonstrations: Invite Native American speakers or performers to your school for presentations on traditional dances, music, and clothing. Witnessing cultural demonstrations firsthand can leave a lasting impression on young minds. Make sure not to reenforce stereotypes by having students replicate tribal dances without understanding which tribe they come from or the significance of the dance.
Powwows are inter-tribal gatherings. They often have drumming, dancing, and singing. Indigenous people can gather together and eat traditional foods. Some members may make crafts or play games. In essence, a powwow serves as a multifaceted event that celebrates, preserves, and shares Indigenous culture while fostering community, understanding, and cultural pride.
Here is an example of a Northern Cree Powwow
4. Indigenous Food Tasting: Explore Native American cuisine with a taste test of traditional dishes like frybread, bison burgers, or corn-based dishes. Discuss the significance of these foods and their role in indigenous culture. Here is a link to some lovely heirloom corn. And here is a Navajo recipe for fry bread.
5. Virtual Field Trips: Take kids on virtual field trips to indigenous heritage sites, museums, and reservations. These online journeys can provide valuable insights into the history and traditions of Native American communities.
6. Learn the History: Encourage kids to learn more about the history of indigenous people, especially the ones in your local area. You can also learn more about Indigenous Peoples Day as a holiday.
7. Native American Games: Organize games and activities that indigenous children traditionally played. Games like the ring and pin toss or storytelling through dance help kids connect with indigenous traditions.
Here is a simple game that you can play. You can also add a craft by having kids make their own moccasins for this game!
8. Cultural Exhibits: Send out a call to community members to borrow indigenous artifacts, artwork, and historical items. Ask a local artisan to bring in some samples for the kids to see. Encourage kids to research and learn about the significance of each piece.
9. Guest Speakers and Elders: Invite Native American elders, storytellers, or members of indigenous communities to share their personal stories and experiences. Their firsthand accounts can be powerful and enlightening.
10. Acts of Kindness: Highlight the importance of community and kindness by involving kids in projects that support indigenous causes, such as collecting items for Native American charities or participating in cultural events. If you are looking for a charity to donate to, I recommend the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center.
Teaching elementary kids about Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity to instill empathy, respect, and cultural appreciation. By incorporating these engaging and educational activities, you can inspire young minds to celebrate diversity, promote understanding, and honor the rich heritage of indigenous peoples. It's a journey that can foster lifelong appreciation for the diverse cultures that make our world so beautifully unique.
