10 Ways to Honor Truth and Reconciliation Day in Your Classroom (With a Dash of Humor and Heart)
Truth and Reconciliation Day is a powerful reminder of our shared history and the ongoing journey toward understanding, healing, and respect. As Ontario teachers, we have a unique opportunity to create spaces where young minds can learn about and honor the experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada. But let’s be real – teaching about such a weighty topic can feel a bit intimidating, especially when you’re trying to make it resonate with students. So, let’s take a deep breath together and explore some ideas that are as impactful as they are engaging. And hey, a little humor and wit never hurt anyone, right?
1. Start with a Story:
Let’s face it, everyone loves a good story. Start your lesson with an Indigenous story or legend that reflects themes of resilience and community. Storytelling is a fundamental part of Indigenous cultures and a fantastic way to draw students in. Imagine their faces lighting up as they hear about the trickster Coyote’s adventures! (Just be sure to preview your stories – some trickster tales are better left for older students.)
Here’s a list of excellent Orange Shirt Day read-aloud books for various grade levels, covering themes of Indigenous history, residential schools, and reconciliation:
Kindergarten – Grade 2
"When We Were Alone" by David A. Robertson
This gentle, award-winning picture book is perfect for introducing young students to the legacy of residential schools in a way they can understand. It tells the story of a young girl asking her grandmother about the reasons behind her clothing and hair choices, leading to discussions about her time in residential school.
"Phyllis’s Orange Shirt" by Phyllis Webstad
Written by Phyllis Webstad, whose experience of having her orange shirt taken away at residential school sparked the movement. This book introduces the concept of Orange Shirt Day and explains the meaning behind it in a straightforward and age-appropriate manner.
"You Hold Me Up" by Monique Gray Smith
A beautifully illustrated story about love, support, and kindness that focuses on positive relationships and how we can hold each other up through challenging times.
Grade 3 – Grade 5
"The Orange Shirt Story" by Phyllis Webstad
This is the expanded picture book version of Phyllis Webstad’s real-life story about her orange shirt being taken from her on her first day at residential school. It helps students understand the lasting effects of the residential school system and why Orange Shirt Day is observed.
"Shi-shi-etko" by Nicola I. Campbell
A poetic and powerful story about a young girl named Shi-shi-etko, who spends her last days before going to residential school immersing herself in the beauty of her Indigenous culture. The book highlights the emotions and connections to land, family, and culture before attending school.
"I Am Not a Number" by Jenny Kay Dupuis and Kathy Kacer
Based on the true story of Jenny Kay Dupuis’s grandmother, this book recounts how Irene was taken to a residential school, stripped of her name, and given a number. This powerful book opens the door for conversations on identity, resilience, and history.
Grade 6 – Grade 8
"Fatty Legs" by Christy Jordan-Fenton and Margaret Pokiak-Fenton
A powerful memoir of Margaret Pokiak-Fenton, who attends residential school and becomes the target of bullying by a nun. It’s a great introduction to the personal stories of residential school survivors and their resilience.
"Speaking Our Truth: A Journey of Reconciliation" by Monique Gray Smith
This non-fiction book delves deeper into the history of residential schools and reconciliation in Canada. It's an accessible and informative resource for older students, offering real stories of survivors and providing a call to action for future generations.
"No Time to Say Goodbye: Children’s Stories of Kuper Island Residential School" by Sylvia Olsen, Rita Morris, and Ann Sam
A collection of five children’s stories that detail their experiences at Kuper Island Residential School, offering a real-life perspective of what students went through. It’s informative and emotional, helping students connect with the history in a meaningful way.
2. Wear Orange and Explain Why:
You’ve seen the sea of orange shirts every September 30th. But why orange? Share the story behind Orange Shirt Day and Phyllis (Jack) Webstad’s experience. Maybe even ask students, “What color would represent your feelings if you were in Phyllis’s shoes?” You’d be amazed at the thoughtful responses kids can have when they’re encouraged to empathize.
3. Host a “Walk for Reconciliation”:
Got some energy to burn? Take your class on a “Walk for Reconciliation” around the school grounds. Talk about the importance of reconciliation and what it means to each student. You could even turn it into a reflective nature walk, encouraging students to think about the land they’re walking on and who walked it before them.
4. Invite a Knowledge Keeper or Elder:
If you have the opportunity, invite a local Indigenous Knowledge Keeper or Elder to share their wisdom and experiences. This isn’t just a lesson; it’s an honor for students to hear first-hand stories and perspectives. And trust me, the real-life impact of these stories is something your students won’t forget.
5. Art for Healing:
Art can be a beautiful expression of healing and resilience. Encourage your students to create art that reflects what they’ve learned or how they feel about Truth and Reconciliation Day. Display their art in your classroom or school to create a visual representation of your collective learning journey.
6. Read Indigenous Authors:
Books are magic, plain and simple. Choose age-appropriate books by Indigenous authors for story time all year round. Students need to see themselves in the stories we read and they also need to learn about others way of life.
Here’s a list of Indigenous books by Indigenous authors that explore a range of themes, such as identity, culture, history, and family, offering a broader understanding of Indigenous perspectives beyond Orange Shirt Day:
Kindergarten – Grade 2
"We All Play / Kimêtawânaw” by Julie Flett
A beautifully illustrated book that celebrates the connection between children and animals, written in both English and Cree. It’s a great way to introduce young readers to the natural world through the lens of Indigenous culture.
"Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story" by Kevin Noble Maillard
This award-winning picture book tells the story of fry bread, a food that connects generations of Native American families. It’s a celebration of family, community, and traditions.
"My Heart Fills With Happiness" by Monique Gray Smith
This simple yet heartwarming book highlights the joy found in everyday moments, celebrating love, gratitude, and connection to culture and community.
Grade 3 – Grade 5
"Jingle Dancer" by Cynthia Leitich Smith
A young Muscogee (Creek) girl named Jenna dreams of dancing in the jingle dress dance at the powwow, but she needs more jingles for her dress. The story explores family, tradition, and community support.
"Turtle Island: The Story of North America's First People" by Eldon Yellowhorn and Kathy Lowinger
This book offers a fascinating look at the history of Indigenous peoples in North America, long before European contact. It introduces readers to the rich cultures, innovations, and stories of Indigenous nations.
"The Water Walker" by Joanne Robertson
This book tells the inspiring true story of Nokomis Josephine Mandamin, an Anishinaabe grandmother who walked around the Great Lakes to raise awareness of the importance of clean water for all living beings.
Grade 6 – Grade 8
"Hearts Unbroken"by Cynthia Leitich Smith
A contemporary novel about Louise, a high school senior from the Muscogee Nation, who navigates racism and cultural identity while working on her school newspaper and falling in love. It’s a thoughtful exploration of Native identity in a modern context.
"The Barren Grounds" by David A. Robertson
This fantasy novel is the first book in the Misewa Saga, where two Indigenous children discover a portal to another world. It blends Indigenous storytelling with magical elements, making it an engaging read for middle-grade students.
"Indian No More" by Charlene Willing McManis and Traci Sorell
Set in 1957, this historical fiction book follows Regina, a Umpqua girl who moves to Los Angeles after her tribe is "terminated" by the government. It explores identity, culture, and the struggle to belong in a world where she’s told she’s no longer Native.
Young Adult
"Firekeeper's Daughter" by Angeline Boulley
A gripping thriller about Daunis, a biracial Ojibwe teen who becomes involved in an FBI investigation into a series of drug-related deaths on her reservation. This novel tackles themes of identity, justice, and Indigenous culture.
"Elatsoe"by Darcie Little Badger
In this young adult novel, Elatsoe, a Lipan Apache girl with the ability to raise the ghosts of animals, sets out to solve the mystery behind her cousin’s death. The book combines Indigenous legends with modern-day supernatural elements.
"The Marrow Thieves" by Cherie Dimaline
Set in a dystopian future where Indigenous peoples are hunted for their ability to dream, this novel follows Frenchie, a Métis teen, as he fights for survival and the preservation of his culture. It’s an award-winning novel that explores the importance of storytelling, resilience, and hope.
These books showcase the richness of Indigenous cultures, stories, and voices, allowing readers to engage with diverse experiences and perspectives. Each book is written by an Indigenous author, ensuring that the stories told are authentic and deeply connected to the communities they represent.
7. Music and Dance:
Introduce your students to Indigenous music and dance. Not only is it a fantastic way to understand another culture, but it's also incredibly fun! From drumming circles to traditional dances, these activities can help students connect with the material in a vibrant, lively way.
8. Create a Classroom Treaty:
Work together as a class to create your own “classroom treaty” based on respect, understanding, and community. Discuss the importance of treaties in Canadian history and how we can all honor agreements we make. This exercise is not only educational but also promotes a positive classroom environment.
9. Reflect with Writing:
Ask students to reflect on what they’ve learned in a journal or a letter. You can even prompt them with questions like, “What does reconciliation mean to you?” or “How can we show respect to everyone, no matter their background?” Reflection is a powerful tool for understanding and empathy.
10. Join the Conversation:
After all these activities, encourage your students to share what they’ve learned with others. Whether it’s in a school assembly, a letter home, or a class blog, sharing knowledge is a key part of reconciliation.
And here’s the kicker: if you’re looking for more ideas, support, or just a community of like-minded educators, why not join our Resilient Rebels Facebook group? It’s a space where we can learn, share, and grow together. Plus, it’s where I’ll be hanging out, ready to chat, laugh, or just listen.
So, Ontario teachers, let’s take this journey together. Let’s make Truth and Reconciliation Day more than just a date on the calendar – let’s make it a day of learning, respect, and, yes, even a bit of fun.
