At Aussie Kindies, we believe that every child should grow up with a strong connection to their local community - and that includes learning about the First Nations peoples who have cared for this land for tens of thousands of years.
This National Reconciliation Week, we’re proud to share how our centres are helping children build respectful, meaningful connections with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures through everyday play, storytelling, and exploration.
Learning That Comes Naturally
For young children, learning is hands-on, messy, musical, and magical. That’s why our approach to cultural education feels like play - but it’s packed with meaning.
You might find children gathered in a yarning circle, listening to a Dreaming story about how the stars came to be. Later, using sand, shells, and paint, they’ll create artworks inspired by what they heard - using traditional symbols to represent people, animals, waterholes or journeys.
In the garden, children help grow native herbs and bush foods. They learn to gently care for the plants and begin to understand the importance of looking after the land - something First Nations peoples have done for generations.
Our educators also invite children to move and sing - teaching songs in language or exploring traditional dance movements. These joyful, active experiences help children build respect and understanding while having fun and connecting with each other.
Every experience is supported by our Lifelong Learning Curriculum and our partnership with Wandana Aboriginal Education, ensuring our teaching is always respectful, authentic, and guided by First Nations voices.
Part of Our Every Day
At Aussie Kindies, First Nations culture isn’t just something we learn about during special events - it’s part of our everyday rhythm.
Children might start the day by joining in an Acknowledgement of Country, or notice that their room includes books, puzzles and artworks that reflect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives. They might hear language words during story time or help create a group artwork using natural materials collected from the yard.
These experiences help children develop empathy, understanding, and pride in the place they live - while also learning to value and respect the cultures that came before them.
Our approach is grounded in our Reconciliation Action Plan, which guides our commitment to building strong relationships, deepening our understanding, and creating inclusive learning environments for every child.
Supporting the Learning at Home
Learning about culture and Country doesn’t have to stop at the centre door. Here are a few simple ways you can keep the conversation going at home:
- Read a book together like Baby Business by Jasmine Seymour - a beautiful story that introduces children to a traditional smoking ceremony and celebrates connection to Country
- Talk about nature - ask your child what they noticed on their walk or how they think we can care for animals, trees, and waterways
- Celebrate their artwork - ask them what symbols they used and what their painting or drawing means
- Learn together - look up a First Nations language word or story and talk about it as a family
These small, thoughtful actions can have a big impact - helping your child grow into a kind, curious, and culturally aware member of their community.
At Aussie Kindies, we’re proud to support every child’s learning journey - one that’s grounded in connection, community, and respect for the oldest continuing culture on Earth.