NAIDOC Week is a time to celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. It’s also an opportunity to educate future generations about the importance of cultural respect and reconciliation. At Children First Early Education, NAIDOC Week holds special significance as we strive to embed cultural understanding into our programs and daily practices.
This year’s theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy", inspired meaningful experiences across our centres that honoured traditions, promoted learning, and connected children to the stories and practices of First Nations people.
Understanding the Importance of NAIDOC Week
At Children First Underwood, Educators used the week to help children explore why NAIDOC Week is celebrated. Conversations focused on the importance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures across Australia, creating opportunities for children to ask questions, share thoughts, and build respect for our First Nations peopl
Sensory Exploration and Indigenous Symbols
Children First Lindisfarne acknowledged NAIDOC Week through interactive sensory trays designed by Educators. These trays were filled with natural materials such as leaves, stones, sand, and bark. This activity encouraged tactile learning while introducing cultural symbolism in a hands-on way.
Learning Through Art
At Children First Mernda, children explored the meaning behind the Aboriginal flag by creating their own interpretations through art. Educators explained the symbolism and significance of each colour: black for the people, yellow for the sun, and red for the earth. Activities like this not only encourage creativity but also help children understand the stories and values represented in cultural symbols.
Creative Cultural Expression
Children First South Hobart encouraged younger classrooms to join in NAIDOC Week celebrations through creative, hands-on activities. Educators supported children as they created Aboriginal-inspired artworks using hand stamping and finger painting. These experiences allowed children to express themselves artistically while engaging with cultural themes in a developmental and age-appropriate way.
We are proud to create an environment that encourages and nurtures the next generation to be culturally aware, respectful, and inclusive. Celebrating NAIDOC Week is one of the many ways we strengthen these values in our programs and ensure children grow up with an appreciation for the rich history and ongoing contributions of First Nations peoples.
At Children First Early Education, cultural learning is embedded into everyday practice, not just during NAIDOC Week. We believe that education plays a powerful role in reconciliation and building a brighter, more inclusive future.
Find out more about our approach to early childhood education and book a tour at your nearest centre here.
Stay up to date with our centres to see how they celebrate and acknowledge Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander cultures throughout the year,
- Children First Cranbrook
- Children First Fairfield
- Children First Gaythorne
- Children First Underwood
- Children First Walkervale
- Children First Mernda
- Children First Mitcham
- Children First Evanston Park
- Children First Salisbury Downs
- Children First Angle Vale
- Children First Ingle Farm
- Children First Lightsview
- Children First Lindisfarne
- Children First South Hobart
Children First Berserker is opening soon. Follow them on Facebook to receive regular updates on their progress.
