NAIDOC Week, from the 7th to the14th of July this year, is a time to celebrate and recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year's theme, “Keep The Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud”, invites us to celebrate the unyielding spirit of community and stand in solidarity, amplifying the voices that have long been silenced. NAIDOC Week provides an opportunity for all Australians to delve deeper into understanding and appreciating the rich cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
One of the most effective ways to celebrate NAIDOC Week and introduce children to First Nations cultures and histories is through picture books. These books offer engaging narratives, vibrant illustrations, and valuable lessons that resonate with young readers.
Dreaming Stories: Understanding Songlines
Dreaming stories are an integral part of Indigenous Australian culture, offering insights into the spiritual and moral teachings that have been passed down through generations. These stories often revolve around the creation of the land, animals, and people, and they are deeply connected to songlines, which are paths that trace the journeys of ancestral spirits as they created the world.
Books such as "The Bunyip and the Stars" by Adam Duncan and Paul Lalo and "Our Dreaming" by Kirli Saunders and Dub Leffler are excellent resources for introducing children to these timeless tales. After reading these stories engage children in activities where they retell local dreaming stories, as told to them by local elders, so they understand that these stories are place specific and continue indefinitely rather than being something from long ago.
Informative Books: Learning About History and Culture
Informative picture books provide factual content in a way that is accessible and engaging for young readers. These books can cover various aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ history, from pre-colonial times to the present day, and highlight the rich cultural practices and significant events that have shaped these communities.
Books such as "Somebody’s Land”, “Ceremony” and “Back on Country” by Adam Goodes, Ellie Laing and David Hardy are a beautiful introduction to the concept of Country. They explore how Australia has been inhabited for 60,000 years and was never Terra Nulius. "Young Dark Emu: A Truer History" by Bruce Pascoe adapts Pascoe’s acclaimed work for younger readers, offering a re-evaluated look at Australia’s history. These books can be paired with discussions and activities where students create their own Acknowledgement of Country, explore the historical contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and understand that Indigenous Australians were excellent fishermen, horticulturalists and astronomers.
Educational Books: Caring for Country
Caring for Country is a fundamental aspect of First Nations connection to the land. Educational picture books can teach children about the sustainable practices and deep respect for nature that are inherent in Indigenous cultures.
Books like "Alight – A Story of Fire and Nature" by Sam Lloyd and Samantha Metcalfe, and "Walking In Gagudju Country" by Diane Lucas, Ben Tyler and Emma Long, provide insights into the relationship between Indigenous Australians and their environment. Activities such as nature walks, creating art from natural materials, and classroom discussions on environmental stewardship can reinforce these lessons and inspire children to appreciate and care for their own surroundings.
Bilingual Books: Embracing Indigenous Languages
Bilingual picture books, where Indigenous languages are woven into the story and taught in context, offer a wonderful way to celebrate and preserve these languages. These books not only introduce children to new words and phrases but also provide a deeper connection to the stories and cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Books like "Baby Business" and "Open Your Heart to Country" by Jasmine Seymour, "Our Mob" by Jacinta Daniher, Taylor Hampton and Seantelle Walsh or “Ninni Yabini” by Cheryl Kickett-Tucket and Tyrown Waigana incorporate Indigenous languages alongside English, making them accessible for all readers. We have created language activities to allow young children to learn simple words and phrases, and provide an opportunity for you to incorporate Indigenous words into your daily classroom routines. This not only enhances language skills but also fosters a greater respect for cultural diversity.
Encouraging Celebration and Learning
As we approach NAIDOC Week, it’s crucial for educators, carers, and librarians to actively engage children with books by and about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. By incorporating dreaming stories, informative books, educational texts, and bilingual books into your reading sessions, you can provide a rich, immersive experience that celebrates the cultural heritage of these communities.
These books are more than just stories; they are gateways to understanding, respect, and empathy. Through reading and related activities, children can develop a profound appreciation for the history, culture, and contributions of First Nations Australians. Let’s use this NAIDOC Week as an opportunity to enrich our classrooms and communities with the wisdom and beauty found in these remarkable stories.