We often get asked about the best resources to make sure Aboriginal perspectives are embedded every day; to make sure that all students have the opportunity to see the strengths of First Nations people and cultures; and to make sure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can see themselves in their learning spaces so they can feel culturally safe, seen and valued - it is well recognised that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students achieve better outcomes when they can see themselves and their culture in their learning environments and curriculum.
The right resources vary for each class based on so many factors but for me these are the 5 stand out resources that I think every classroom and teacher should have.
Posters and Artwork
A variety of posters featuring Aboriginal artwork, people and culture is a must. These not only add colour and vibrancy to a room, they offer so many opportunities to engage kids in conversations about Aboriginal art but more broadly Aboriginal culture and people. Remember to source your decor ethically: make sure the artist is First Nations (it is not First Nations art if it isn’t made by a First Nations artist); buy from First Nations people or organisations; and do not print artworks from the internet without permission. There are options for every budget, so take the time to source them. If you are a subscriber, check out the classroom decor and posters you can print from your Wingaru Kids dashboard. We also have an affordable collection of A2 and A4 posters in store.
Calendar of Key First Nations Events
Knowing when Key First Nations are is super helpful in planning your inclusions and showcasing Aboriginal events in your classroom sends the message that the dates are important. Regardless of how you approach including perspectives, these dates are crucial for supporting conversations and awareness of the journey of First Nations people. There are a few Key Dates calendars around so pick one that appeals to you but make sure it’s comprehensive and strengths based. Our A2 Wall Planner is popular amongst teachers - it has loads of dates, looks amazing and you can write on it to add your own information, dates and events. We also have a free downloadable A4 Calendar if that’s more your thing.
Yarn Cards
Having a yarn has always been an important teaching tool in Aboriginal communities and including yarning in your teaching strategies is a great way to ensure you are embedding Aboriginal ways of teaching and learning as well as content. A good yarn shares ideas, points of view, and experience. A good yarn is engaging and gives people the opportunity to explore concepts, to challenge ideas and to resolve uncertainty about their thoughts. Yarning happens organically in classrooms - most kids love a yarn - but the stories they share can quickly take you off track. Introducing yarning cards to provide focus questions and frameworks for the discussion will help keep you on track. There are lots of yarning cards exploring lots of different topics so take time to check out the ones that work best for your class. Our Yarn Cards explore a variety of Aboriginal related topics and are suitable for most age groups. Check them out here.
First Nations Stories
Whether books or video is your jam, having a source of First Nations stories accessible to your learners is vital for supporting understanding and appreciation of First Nation voices.
There are so many beautiful books being shared by First Nations authors that there really is something to suit all ages and sharing knowledge about a diverse range of topics - whether it be a language resources like Wingaru’s Dharug Language books Warami Midigar, Mii Marri Gaban and Yanyingi Yiyiri: Walk Like Us or a story exploring important issues like Somebody’s Land: Welcome to Our Country by Adam Goods and Ellie Laing or books sharing culture like Noeleen’s NAIDOC, make sure you have some on hand. The only rule is making sure you choose titles written by First Nations people.
Video is a tool that is used increasingly in classrooms and with good reason. Video appeals to a diverse range of learning styles and provide an accessible way to access story, culture and voice. Wingaru Kids has over 260 complete lessons featuring a Watch, Play, Learn format so that kids can explore content at their own pace. The lesson plans are written by teachers for teachers and include all the information you need to deliver quality strengths based lessons that engage students and encourage critical thinking and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. We have a free trial here if you want to check our how it can support you in the classroom.
Feedback Tools that Feature First Nations Art
Feedback is such an important part of learning and whether we are recognising achievement, effort or something else entirely, the impact of receiving a stamp, sticker or merit award should not be underestimated. My kids school invites parents to attend assemblies every week and one of the things I love most about being able to attend is seeing the pride in kids as they receive their awards. Both my boys are quick to whip out their tokens of recognition and share their successes after a long day at school and I am sure they are not alone. Since we introduced our range of stamps, stickers and merit certificates, we have received feedback from teachers, parents and students about the joy of receiving tokens that showcase Aboriginal art. The message is clear - that Aboriginal culture and art is valued and a positive part of the classroom. For Aboriginal students this speaks volumes.
