Honoring Indigenous Peoples' Day – Teaching Respect and Understanding Across All Ages
The Holy Land is everywhere.
— Black Elk (Oglala Lakota)
Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a meaningful opportunity to recognize and celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Indigenous communities around the world. It is a time to reflect on the resilience and wisdom of Indigenous peoples, whose traditions are deeply rooted in respect for the land, community, and ancestry. Teaching our children about Indigenous cultures not only broadens their understanding but also fosters a spirit of respect and appreciation for diverse voices and traditions.
By offering age-appropriate activities, we can guide our children through the importance of Indigenous knowledge, encouraging them to be mindful, compassionate, and curious about the world around them.
Preschool:
At this age, children are just beginning to explore different cultures and ideas. Activities that introduce the beauty of Indigenous storytelling and art are wonderful ways to start teaching respect and understanding.
Activity: Indigenous Storytime and Craft
Read a children’s book that introduces Indigenous stories or cultures, such as "We Are Water Protectors" by Carole Lindstrom or "Fry Bread" by Kevin Noble Maillard.
Lower Elementary:
Children in lower elementary are developing their ability to understand and appreciate other cultures. Fostering curiosity through activities that highlight Indigenous traditions is a great way to expand their worldview.
Activity: Nature Walk with Indigenous Teachings
Take a nature walk with your child, focusing on the importance of the land and the interconnectedness of all living things—a central theme in many Indigenous cultures. Collect leaves, stones, or other natural items, and talk about how Indigenous communities often see the earth as a relative to be respected and cared for. Discuss how we can show respect for nature in our everyday lives.
Upper Elementary:
At this stage, children are becoming more aware of social justice and the significance of different cultures. Activities that introduce them to Indigenous leaders and their contributions are an impactful way to build awareness and respect.
Activity: Indigenous Leaders Research
Help your child choose an Indigenous leader to learn about, such as environmental activist Autumn Peltier or poet Joy Harjo. After reading about their lives ask them what they found inspiring and how Indigenous leaders have contributed to the protection of the earth, culture, and communities.
Middle School:
Middle schoolers are ready to engage in discussions that go beyond the surface and explore deeper themes like justice and cultural respect. Encouraging them to reflect on these themes fosters empathy and awareness.
Activity: Research Indigenous Land Acknowledgments
Introduce your middle schooler to the concept of land acknowledgments—statements that honor the Indigenous peoples who originally inhabited the land we live on. Encourage them to research the Indigenous tribes of your region and write their own land acknowledgment. Discuss why it's important to recognize and respect the original stewards of the land, and how these acknowledgments can be a step toward building a more just and inclusive society. Link for Native Land
High School:
High school students are developing critical thinking skills and are ready to delve into topics like cultural preservation, activism, and history with more depth.
Activity: Indigenous Rights and Environmental Activism
Encourage your teen to research the connection between Indigenous communities and environmental activism. They can choose an ongoing movement, like the fight against pipelines or the preservation of sacred lands. Have have a discussion reflecting on how Indigenous teachings about the earth continue to influence modern environmental movements.
Feel free to explore these activities in a way that suits your family’s rhythm—adapt them, mix them up, or create something entirely new! The beauty lies in making them your own. If you try something different, we’d love to hear your story and share in the journey!
Parent Reflection:
As parents, Indigenous Peoples’ Day offers us the opportunity to reflect on the importance of respect, empathy, and cultural understanding. It reminds us that teaching our children about the rich history and contributions of Indigenous peoples isn’t just a one-day event—it’s an ongoing conversation. Through storytelling, nature exploration, and meaningful discussions, we can instill in our children the values of respect and care for all cultures and for the earth.
This day encourages us to examine how we can better honor Indigenous voices, not only by teaching our children but by actively seeking to understand and support the rights and traditions of Indigenous communities. Let’s use this day as a starting point for deeper learning and engagement, passing down the wisdom of respect and gratitude for the world and all its peoples.
