November is Native American Heritage Month, and while we know we are not experts on the subject, we're excited to help you bring the rich cultures and histories of Native American communities into your classrooms. We're all about amplifying Native American voices, celebrating diversity, and having fun while we do it. So, let's dive into these fantastic tools and materials that'll help you make this Native American Heritage Month one to remember in your class!
We've gathered some rich content to make Native American Heritage Month ultra special and vibrant in classrooms. Read on to browse our favorite elementary school-appropriate websites, read-alouds, and videos.
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Native American Heritage Websites
Explore these excellent websites for culturally authentic resources to foster inclusivity and respect in learning. By utilizing materials from Native American authors and organizations, you can rest assured that your students will gain a more accurate and empathetic understanding of Native American history and traditions.
NIEA PreK-2 Student-Centered Learning Activities
This website offers student-centered digital learning activities, primarily aimed at early childhood to second-grade students, in collaboration with the National Indian Education Association (NIEA). From crafts to games to teaching activities, Native American culture is brought to life in fun ways!
Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian
This website, hosted by the National Museum of the American Indian, provides a rich repository of educational resources for teachers interested in Native American culture and history. Educators can find a wide range of lesson plans, interactive tools, and multimedia resources designed to enhance their classroom teachings and promote a deeper understanding of Native American heritage among their students.
Tribal Legacy Project
This site showcases Native American heritage and stories through multimedia presentations and interactive exhibits. Teachers can find a wealth of resources, such as videos, photos, and educational content, to incorporate authentic Native American perspectives and history into their teaching.
Teachings of Our Elders
The focus on this site is to provide resources for elementary school teachers interested in incorporating Indigenous perspectives and teachings into their curricula. Teachers can access a variety of educational materials, lesson plans, and cultural resources aimed at fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures among their students.
Native American Heritage Videos
These videos encourage a deeper appreciation of Native American heritage, promoting cultural understanding and fostering inclusivity in the classroom.
Native American Heritage Day for Kids
Here is a short animated film that provides a historical perspective on the first Thanksgiving, highlighting the contributions of Native Americans. Teachers can use this video for a culturally sensitive Thanksgiving discussion, highlighting Native American perspectives in American history.
The Living History of Native American Gatherings
What is Native American Heritage Month? Facts for Kids
Contributions of Native Americans
In this video, kids will learn facts about Native Americans people, past and present. The focus is on looking at the Native American culture through the lens of achievements and long-lasting legacy that still positively influences America today.
Books
Give voice to Native American heritage through these read-aloud books! Our list focuses on narratives that allow students to explore Native American stories, experiences, and perspectives.
Native American Stories for Kids: 12 Traditional Stories from Indigenous Tribes across North America
By Tom Pecore Weso
This book is a collection of captivating tales that offers young readers a glimpse into the diverse cultures and rich oral traditions of various Native American tribes.
We Are Still Here! Native American Truths Everyone Should Know
By Traci Sorrell
Educate readers about the often overlooked or misunderstood aspects of Native American history and contemporary issues, offering valuable insights into the resilience and contributions of Native American communities.
When We Were Alone
By David A. Robertson
In “When We Were Alone,” a young girl learns from her grandmother about preserving heritage and resilience amid adversity.
Fry Bread
By Kevin Noble Maillard
This is a heartfelt picture book that celebrates the cultural significance of fry bread in Native American communities, highlighting the connections between food, family, and heritage.
We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga
By Traci Sorell
Discover a beautifully illustrated, culturally rich children's book on Cherokee gratitude, emphasizing seasonal appreciation and interconnectedness in nature.
At The Mountain’s Base
By Traci Sorell
Kids and teachers will adore this heartwarming picture book depicting a Native American family's journey of courage, tradition, and unity as they await their military loved one's return.
We Are Water Protectors
By Carole Lindstrom
This book empowers young readers to protect Earth's water sources with Indigenous wisdom and environmental stewardship in focus.
A Day With Yayah
By Nicola Campbell
Join young Indigenous girl and her grandmother, Yayah in nature, celebrating cultural heritage, love, and wisdom in “A Day With Yayah”.
You Hold Me Up
By Monique Gray Smith
This sweet book is all about the power of support, love, and understanding within Indigenous communities, promoting kindness and respect as essential values.
The Star People: A Lakota Story
By S.D. Nelson
This is a traditional Lakota story about the origins of the Pleiades star cluster, offering readers a glimpse into Lakota culture and mythology.
Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids
By Cynthia L. Smith
A collection of heartwarming and diverse stories from various Indigenous authors, celebrating the rich tapestry of Native American cultures and traditions.
Stolen Words
By Melanie Florence
A touching children's book that talks about how Indigenous languages were taken away from families in the past and why it's important to keep them alive today.
Read About Other Cultures
If you found this reading list helpful, be sure to check out our other read aloud lists.
As educators, we can foster a deeper understanding and respect for Native American heritage, not just during November, but throughout the year. We hope these resources inspire young minds to appreciate Indigenous cultures, fostering a more inclusive and empathetic future.
Do you know some high-quality Native American Heritage resources to add to this list? Please let us know in the comments!
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