Module 3: Living Inquiries – Well-Being and Belonging

Indigenous Voices and Perspectives

Educators consider Indigenous resources and begin conversations with colleagues, families, and children about the importance of Indigenous culture and history in Canada.

Critically Reflective Questions

  • How might I bring ideas and concepts I have learned through Indigenous partners and resources into my program?
  • How might my biases and perceptions impact my work?
  • How can I make sure that I have high expectations for all children while I accommodate, recognize, and celebrate differences?
  • How might I respectfully ask Elders for guidance on cultural protocols, and then share them with staff, parents, and children?
  • What can I do to ensure that the diversity of Indigenous cultures is recognized and reflected in my program?

Case Study: Indigenous voices and perspectives

In a Grade 2 classroom, the children are learning about Indigenous experiences by reading children’s books by Indigenous authors. Some of these books are about residential schools in Canada.

The educator invites Indigenous partners from the community to come into the classroom and to safely and gently speak with children about these experiences, and allow the children to ask questions and have respectful and safe discussions.

Reflective Questions

The educator invites children’s learning through literature and a guest speaker.

How might you respectfully ask Elders for guidance on cultural protocols, and then share them with staff, parents, and children?

How might you bring ideas and concepts you have learned through Indigenous partners and resources into your program?

children's collection of ideas and objects displaying a narrative