November is not just the month of Thanksgiving; it’s also a time to honor and celebrate Native American Heritage Month. As homeschool families, we have a unique opportunity to explore and acknowledge the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Native Americans. Integrating this celebration into our learning can provide valuable lessons that shape our children into informed and empathetic individuals. Here’s why it’s important and how you can start.
Why Celebrate Native American Heritage Month?
Learn Together: Celebrating this month gives us a chance to learn more about Native American cultures and traditions. It’s like a mini-field trip without leaving the couch! Understanding different perspectives helps our kids grow up with empathy and respect for others.
History That Matters: Often, the stories we hear in textbooks don’t paint the full picture of American history. By adding Native American stories to our learning, we can help our kids understand a more complete narrative—one that includes voices and experiences that are often left out.
Nature Connection: Many Native American cultures have a beautiful connection to the earth. Engaging with these teachings can inspire our children to appreciate nature and develop a sense of responsibility toward our planet.
Real Talk: Discussing Native American heritage opens the door to important conversations about identity, history, and the issues that indigenous communities face today. These discussions can help our kids think critically about the world around them.
Books to Get You Started
Ready to dive in? Here are some fantastic picture books, chapter books, and audiobooks that are perfect for celebrating Native American Heritage Month in your homeschool. Trust me, they’ll make learning fun and interesting!
Picture Books:
- We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom: This stunning book tells the story of a young Indigenous girl, of the Ojibwe tribe, who fights to protect the Earth’s water from an oil pipeline. It teaches kids about the importance of protecting our water resources and it’s beautifully illustrated.
- Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story by Kevin Noble Maillard: This picture book tells the story of a modern Native American family through the lens of fry bread. The book explores the cultural significance of fry bread, a staple food in many Native American homes, and how it connects people across different Indigenous communities.
- The First Strawberries: A Cherokee Story by Joseph Bruchac: This sweet tale shares the origin of strawberries in a way that’s engaging and meaningful for kids.
Chapter Books:
- Sitting Bull: Lakota Warrior and Defender of His People by S. D. Nelson: This engaging biography brings the life of Sitting Bull to your children. It’s a great way to learn about an important figure in history.
- The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich: A beautiful story about an adopted, Native American girl living in the 1840s. It’s rich in culture and symbolism and really brings history to life!
- Maria Tallchief: America’s First Ballerina by Maria Tallchief: This biography tells the inspiring story of Maria Tallchief, a remarkable Native American ballerina who became the first star of the New York City Ballet. It’s an empowering tale that highlights her dedication, talent, and cultural heritage, making it perfect for young readers interested in the arts.
Audiobooks:
- Code Talker: A Novel About the Navajo Marines of World War Two by Joseph Bruchac: This gripping tale highlights the brave Navajo code talkers. It’s both exciting and educational—perfect for car rides or cozy listening sessions.
- Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’dell: Published in 1960, Island of the Blue Dolphins is a middle grade historical fiction/adventure novel. Karana, the protagonist and narrator, is only 12 when hunters land on her peaceful island home and kill many of her people, including her father. When the remaining villagers leave the island in search of a safe place to rebuild their lives, she stays behind and must learn to survive on her own. O’Dell drew inspiration from the true story of the Lone Woman of San Nicolas, who lived during the 1800s.
- Jim Thorpe, Original All-American by Joseph Bruchac: This compelling narrative non-fiction book recounts the story of Jim Thorpe, one of the greatest athletes in American history. It not only celebrates his incredible achievements in sports but also sheds light on the struggles faced by Native American athletes during that era.
Let’s Celebrate!
So, as we head into November, let’s take a moment to celebrate Native American Heritage Month together! Gather up those books, start some conversations, and create lasting memories as you learn about the vibrant heritage of Native Americans. Remember, homeschooling is all about making connections, and this is a wonderful opportunity to do just that.
Happy reading and celebrating! 🎉
Please share how you teach and honor the past, present, and future of Indigenous Peoples!
