Read, Create, Learn: Indigenous Peoples’ Day Activities - post

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a meaningful time to plan learning that is kind, accurate, and respectful. When Indigenous voices are seen and heard, children learn that people, stories, and cultures matter. These activities help children learn about culture through real books, hands-on projects, and gentle conversation. #IndigenousPeoplesDay #classroom #culture

Why does Indigenous Peoples’ Day matter in early childhood?

Young children form ideas quickly. They learn from what we say, what we do, and what we celebrate. When we honor Indigenous Peoples’ Day in a respectful way, we help children learn:

• Correct, simple facts

• Kindness and respect

• That many communities have lived on this land for a very long time

• That stories should be told by the people they belong to

A helpful goal is to center Indigenous authors, Indigenous illustrators, and Indigenous community voices whenever possible. #respect

What book-based activities teach Indigenous Peoples’ Day with respect?

Books are one of the best ways to teach gently. Start with picture books by Indigenous authors. Many books include author notes that help adults teach correctly.

Use this simple set of activities (in order):

1. Read a short picture book aloud by an Indigenous author.
   Pause for “wonder moments” so children can ask questions.

2. Look closely at the pictures.
   Invite children to name colors, places, and feelings:

   • “What do you notice?”

   • “How does the character feel?”

3. Let children draw one scene from the story.
   Ask each child to tell one sentence about their drawing.

4. Add music or rhythm only when it fits the book.
   If the book includes music or dance, keep it simple:

   • clapping a rhythm

   • tapping softly on the table
     Avoid copying sacred songs or dances.

5. Keep the books available all week.
   Put them in a small basket in your reading area for free-play reading.

Teacher tip: Read the author notes first. They often explain important background in a respectful way. #literacy

For more book-based activity ideas you can use right away, start here:
https://www.childcareed.com/r-00838-indigenous-peoples-day-activities-for-kids.html

What hands-on art activities are respectful and age-appropriate?

Children learn with their hands. Hands-on projects work best when they connect to a story or a local tradition—and when they avoid stereotypes.

Try these safe, classroom-friendly ideas:

• Nature collage

  • Children use leaves, sticks, and paper to create a collage.

  • Connect it to a story theme like “land,” “seasons,” or “animals.”

• Story stones

  • Children paint smooth stones with simple symbols from the story (sun, water, tree).

  • Then they use the stones to retell the story in their own words.

• Bead pattern math (paper version)

  • Use paper “beads” (colored circles) and string them on yarn.

  • Practice patterns: red-blue-red-blue or 1–2–3 repeat.

• Community mural

  • Make a group mural showing land, water, plants, and animals.

  • Add children’s words like “respect,” “listen,” “share,” and “care.”

What to avoid:

• Avoid copying sacred items or symbols.

• Avoid “costume” activities (like pretending to wear regalia).

• Avoid teaching that all Indigenous nations are the same.

Simple accommodation ideas (for all learners):

• Pre-cut materials for children who need help with fine motor.

• Offer a quiet table option.

• Use picture directions with 3–4 steps.

Can we include food activities, and how do we keep them safe?

Food can be a meaningful connection to culture, but it must be handled carefully and respectfully.

Safe ways to do “food learning” without breaking rules:

• Read about a food from a book first

  • Talk about ingredients and where they come from (corn, berries, squash).

• Use smell-and-tell

  • Pass around (with allergy awareness) safe items like cinnamon sticks or dried corn.

• Do a no-cook option

  • Example: mix a simple trail mix if your program allows it and families approve.

Important safety reminders:

• Check allergies.

• Get permissions when needed.

• Follow food handling rules and licensing requirements.

How can we involve Elders and community voices in a safe, respectful way?

Community voices are powerful. If you invite an Elder or Indigenous guest speaker, plan with care.

Use these steps:

1. Reach out early

   • Contact local Indigenous organizations, cultural centers, or Indigenous education offices.

2. Ask what the guest prefers

   • How they want to be introduced

   • What they are comfortable sharing

   • Whether photos are allowed

3. Offer an honorarium

   • Ask what is appropriate.

   • Cover travel if needed.

4. Prepare children with simple listening rules

   • “Eyes watching, ears listening, hands calm.”

   • Keep the visit short and calm for young children.

Common mistakes and fixes:

• Mistake: Using dances or props without permission
  Fix: Ask first and follow the guest’s guidance.

• Mistake: Teaching all Indigenous cultures as one group
  Fix: Focus on local nations and specific people.

• Mistake: Making “costumes” or wearing sacred items
  Fix: Use paper crafts or nature art instead. #inclusion

What is an easy schedule for Indigenous Peoples’ Day that includes play and reflection?

Structure helps children feel safe. Here’s a simple 2-hour plan you can adjust:

• Welcome and circle (10 minutes)

  • A short land/territory acknowledgement (simple and respectful)

  • One calm breath together

• Read-aloud (15 minutes)

  • Indigenous-authored picture book

  • Show pictures and name feelings

• Choice time (30 minutes)

  • Station 1: story-connected art

  • Station 2: blocks or dramatic play with non-sacred props (animals, nature items)

• Outdoor time (25 minutes)

  • Nature walk, noticing plants and animals

  • “Thank you, land” moment: one kind sentence about nature

• Snack or food learning (15 minutes)

  • Follow health rules and permissions

  • Keep it simple

• Sharing and goodbye (10 minutes)

  • Each child shares one word:

    • “I noticed…” or “I learned…”

FAQ

• Can we make costumes?
  Avoid making or wearing sacred regalia. Choose paper crafts or nature-based art instead.

• Who pays Elders or community guests?
  Offer an honorarium and cover travel when needed. Ask what is appropriate.

• What if families object?
  Share your plan early. List the book(s), goals, and activities. Explain that you are teaching respect and accurate learning.

• How do we pick books?
  Choose books by Indigenous authors and, when possible, local nation stories. Read author notes first.

Conclusion: Small steps, lasting respect

Respectful Indigenous Peoples’ Day activities are about listening, learning, and doing small actions well. Choose an Indigenous-authored book, plan hands-on learning that avoids stereotypes, invite community voices when possible, and keep safety rules in mind. #respect #classroomcommunity

To make planning easier, use this ChildCareEd resource:
https://www.childcareed.com/r-00838-indigenous-peoples-day-activities-for-kids.html