Let’s Talk About the Theme for NRW, 2023
Each year Reconciliation Australia selects a different theme to celebrate NRW. The theme for NRW 2023 is “Be a Voice for Generations”. In this activity, educators will support children to explore the meaning and purpose of the theme. They will also consider practical opportunities for bringing the theme into classrooms, around the service, and with the […]
Caring for Country
In this activity, children watch the Play school episode ‘Acknowledgement of Country’ to help them to understand the significance of Country/place and to build a personal sense of responsibility for respecting the environment around them. Children are encouraged to become aware of and appreciate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander contributions to sustainable Land management. Children then […]
Children’s Engagement with the RAP
Given that reconciliation is a collective, collaborative journey, it is important to foster opportunities for all children to be engaged with planning and implementing reconciliation initiatives. This activity provides some ideas for children’s engagement.
Collaborative Art Project
In this activity, with the support of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, educators guide children to work together to create a shared artwork at their early learning service. This artwork will help to visibly demonstrate respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures, and serve as a reminder of the importance […]
Colours as Cultural Symbols
This craft-based activity teaches children about the cultural meanings and significance of the colours that make up the Aboriginal Flag and the Torres Strait Islander Flag.
Come on in! An Invitation to a VIP Visitor
This activity teaches children about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in their local or wider Australian community, and the value of welcoming them into their learning environments. It involves:
Community Building Blocks
Guide children to construct a basic model of their local area with building blocks. Then mark important Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander places, community sites and organisations within the area. Talk positively with the children about who they might meet at these places, and what important things they might learn there.
Connection to Country Incursion or Excursion
Take an excursion or organise an incursion to learn about the historical and cultural significance of: This activity involves consulting the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to find out where and what is appropriate to learn about. It is important that you draw on existing relationships when planning something that needs consultation with the […]
Difference is Deadly!
This activity helps children to develop an early awareness of personal or cultural differences, and a positive attitude towards difference, by celebrating what makes them special and unique. Reflecting on cultural identity and what makes you unique can help you to better understand and appreciate other people and cultures. These early attitudes and understandings can […]
From Play School to Pre-School – Learning from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Educators
This activity is about the positive things children can learn from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people every day. It helps children develop an early (maybe indirect or subconscious) awareness of why it’s good to have Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people working in educational settings.
