National Aboriginal Day

Hudak, C. Heather.(2010). National Aboriginal Day

     Alberta: Weigl Educational Publishers Limited

ISBN: 978-1-55388-521-4

This book would educate children about the contributions made by the Aboriginal People towards shaping Canada and the Government of Canada commemorating this by marking June 21^st as the National Aboriginal Day.   The day coincides with the first day of summer. This book of facts familiarizes young children with the history and traditions of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis. The content of the book is in simple and short sentences for young children’s understanding.  It gives a wide range of knowledge in just ten pages, and is short enough to hold any preschooler’s attention. 

The images are all prints of photographs; showing full size pictures of the colorful traditional dances, the cultural artifacts of the Aboriginal People and the landscapes of the country. The children will be drawn towards the sharp glossy photographs. The style and the layout, text framed with a border on the left side of each page and the photo images on the right of each page, are also very appealing for children viewing.

The teacher could dress in traditional Aboriginal garb and place some of the popular native items such as a lacrosse stick (or crosse), and bannock within the children`s view. Ask the children if they can identify the items. Let the children play with the crosse and taste the bread.  For many, this would be a new experience and an introduction to a different culture.

3 Ways of Presenting the Story

Narration: The pictures in the book can be used to enhance children’s imaginations and understanding of the customs and traditions of the natives of Canada. As the book is read and pictures are shown, the children will notice details and ask questions. The pictures and traditions can be compared with some of their own customs and traditions by having them share their own experiences. With repetitive reading, vocabulary is enriched and the facts become easier for the children to remember.  

Picture board: Create a flow chart with three sections on a wall board in sequence of the text in the book. Section one could include what National Aboriginal Day is. Section two could include the Aboriginal People’s games, songs, and dances. Section three would then include their traditional foods. The pictures can be enlarged and laminated. The children can help pin the pictures up as the book is read out to them. The active involvement of the children will keep them focused and attentive. 

3 Possible Extensions

Art: Set up the easel and have bright vibrant colors available for the children to use. Play Aboriginal music and ask the children to reflect on the book and paint their feelings and experiences. Display pictures of the traditional clothes, accessories, art, dances, musical instruments, foods, and homes for inspiration. Skills in coordinating music with painting are developed, and interacting with peers is enhanced.

Project: Have children work on collecting and displaying information on the life style, language, beliefs, customs, and traditions of Canada’s First Nations, Inuit, and Métis. Encourage children’s thoughts by listening to their questions and comments. Discuss and share their views in class. This would widen the children’s knowledge of the heritage of the Indigenous people of Canada.   

Field Trip: A day trip to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, in Squamish, will make a very informative and an adventurous trip for children. They will be greeted with a welcome song. This will be followed by a guided tour of the museum and exhibits, a 15 minutes film in the museums theatre. The tour will be finished with a cultural forest walk and craft making. For more information call 1-866 441 7522 or visit www.slcc.ca