Each June, Canada recognizes Indigenous History Month a time to honour the rich cultures, contributions, and histories of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. For parents and educators, this month is a powerful opportunity to support children's growing understanding of diversity, inclusion, and truth. By fostering respect for Indigenous Peoples and their ways of knowing and being, we lay the groundwork for reconciliation, empathy, and social justice from the early years onward.
What is Indigenous History Month?
National Indigenous History Month, established in 2009, celebrates the history, heritage, resilience, and diversity of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. It’s a time to reflect on the past, acknowledge the present, and commit to a more inclusive and equitable future. This month builds awareness around the experiences of Indigenous communities both pre- and post-contact and encourages all Canadians to learn, unlearn, and engage in reconciliation.
June 21st also marks National Indigenous Peoples Day, coinciding with the summer solstice, a sacred time of year for many Indigenous cultures. This day recognizes and celebrates the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Turtle Island (North America).
Why It Matters in Early Childhood Education
Young children are naturally curious and empathetic. Introducing them to Indigenous culture and perspectives in age-appropriate ways helps develop a sense of respect, equity, and appreciation for difference. Early learning environments that reflect diverse cultural narratives, including Indigenous voices, foster identity-building, social-emotional growth, and cultural awareness.
For Indigenous children, representation in the classroom affirms their identity, builds confidence, and strengthens cultural pride. For non-Indigenous children, it helps break down stereotypes and nurtures the values of respect, reciprocity, and relational learning.
Age-Appropriate Ways to Teach Children About Indigenous Culture
Here are inclusive and developmentally appropriate ways to meaningfully integrate Indigenous content into your classroom, childcare center or at home:
1. Read Indigenous-authored Children's Books
Stories are one of the most powerful tools in early childhood education. Choose books by Indigenous authors and illustrators that highlight culture, language, traditions, and contemporary life. A few favourites:
- We All Play by Julie Flett
- When We Were Alone by David A. Robertson & Julie Flett
- Sweetest Kulu by Celina Kalluk
- My Heart Fills With Happiness by Monique Gray Smith
These stories offer gentle but meaningful windows into Indigenous teachings and ways of life.
2. Incorporate Nature-Based Learning
Many Indigenous worldviews are deeply rooted in land-based knowledge. Engage in outdoor learning activities that invite children to explore seasonal changes, listen to birds, gather natural materials, or create land art. Use these moments to discuss respect for the land, gratitude, and interconnectedness—key values in many Indigenous teachings.
Images via Take Me Outside & Carleton
3. Learn Words in Indigenous Languages
Teach children simple words in local Indigenous languages—such as greetings, animals, or nature terms. Use resources or collaborate with Indigenous Elders or Knowledge Keepers in your community to ensure accuracy and cultural respect.
4. Use Music, Dance, and Art
Explore Indigenous music, traditional drumming, or visual arts in playful, sensory ways. Children can paint using earth tones, weave patterns, or create nature-inspired art while listening to stories of how Indigenous art reflects identity, spirit, and land.
Images via Prince George Citizen, Erin Cox , CBC Kids, But First We Craft
5. Model Respectful Practices
Simple actions like starting the day with a land acknowledgement or talking about whose traditional territory you're on helps children understand the importance of place, respect, and recognition. Encourage children to use language that honours all people and cultures, and create an inclusive classroom culture rooted in empathy and understanding.
Ways to Observe Indigenous History Month in the Classroom
- Create a Month-Long Learning Wall: Highlight Indigenous cultures, languages, flags, and notable Indigenous leaders and artists.
- Participate in Local Events or Virtual Tours: Many Indigenous communities, museums, and cultural centres offer family-friendly events, storytelling circles, or workshops.
- Invite Indigenous Guest Speakers: Where possible, connect with local Elders or Knowledge Keepers to share teachings, stories, or songs.
- Host a Story Circle: Create a cozy classroom or family space to read Indigenous stories and reflect together.
- Make it Hands-On: Create “learning invitations” or sensory bins that include loose parts inspired by nature, traditional colours, or Indigenous beadwork patterns.
Celebrating Indigenous History Month is not a one-time event—it’s part of a larger commitment to reconciliation, truth, and equity. By starting with young children, we plant seeds of awareness, compassion, and respect that will shape future generations. Let this month inspire educators and families alike to listen, learn, and take action—not only in June, but all year long.
Together, we can build learning spaces that reflect the diverse stories of Canada, uplift Indigenous voices, and nurture children who honour inclusion, culture, and community from the very start.
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