All About Australia Day / Different Views of 26 January
Different Views of 26 January
An optional, educator-led talk for older children about why 26 January means different things to different Australians, ending with ideas for a fair and welcoming Australia.
How to run it
- Prepare using age-appropriate resources from Reconciliation Australia or your local First Nations organisations.
- Explain simply that many people celebrate, while for many First Nations people it is a day of mourning and survival.
- Read a picture book by a First Nations author that shares that perspective.
- Ask children what they think makes a place fair, safe and welcoming for everyone.
- Have children add their ideas to a 'Our Australia' poster.
You will need
- picture book by a First Nations author
- large poster paper
- markers
Make it easier or harderKeep it to the picture book and poster for younger children; older children can write a short reflection.
SafetyKeep it optional and calm, avoid putting any child on the spot, and let families know beforehand.
My Time Our Place · Outcome 2, Outcome 5Children learn that people hold different perspectives and express ideas about fairness and respect.
Fits these theme days
More like this
All About Australia Day · Aussie Outback Day · Cricket Day +2
Australia Day Activity Mix
A relaxed program of Australian animal crafts, a damper-making session and backyard cricket gives children a hands-on day about life in Australia.
All About Australia Day · Animal Theme · Aussie Outback Day +3Kangaroo and Koala Masks
Younger children paint and decorate paper plate masks of kangaroos or koalas, talking about the features of each native animal.
All About Australia Day · Cricket Day · Summer Holidays +2Relaxed Backyard Cricket
A casual, inclusive game of cricket with friendly rules so everyone gets a bat, a bowl and a laugh.
All About Australia Day · Birthday for Everyone Day · Cooking Day +2Fairy Bread Making
Children butter bread and shake on colourful sprinkles to make a classic Australian party treat, practising simple food preparation skills.