National Indigenous History Month
June is National Indigenous History Month, a time for all Canadians to reflect on history by educating ourselves of the past and what we can do better going forward. With the increasing number of children's remains being found on the grounds of former residential schools we are reminded of the tragic past Canada has. It is important to not only reflect on the past but also acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of Indigenous individuals.
It is important to encourage thoughtful and respectful conversations with your children about diverse cultures and the significant contribution Indigenous people make to Canada.
Support your local Indigenous communities and improve your understanding of the diverse cultures within Canada, by choosing these terrific products from Indigenous owned businesses, authors and illustrators.
Children's Toys
- Dilly Dally sells genuine northwest coast Aboriginal toys and art books.
- Strong Nations Indigenous Toys
- Instructional toys to help connect children to the Indigenous peoples and cultures through play.
- Native Northwest
Indigenous Authors and Illustrators
Tomson Highway is an Indigenous Canadian playwright, novelist, and children's author. He is best known for his plays The Rez Sisters and Dry Lips Oughta move to Kapuskasing.
Buffy Sainte-Marie: Sainte-Marie has spent her whole life creating, and her artistry, humanitarian efforts, and Indigenous leadership have made her a unique force: she is well known for music as well as her indigenous art! She wrote the children's book “Hey Little Rock-a-Bye Baby”.
Sherry Farrell Racette: is a Métis Canadian feminist scholar, author, and artist.
Earl Einarson: is a member of the Ktunaxa First Nation in British Columbia. He lives in Vancouver. The Moccasins is his first children's book
Joanne Robertson Misko Anungo Kwe: is an Anishinaabe author, illustrator, and water protection activist.
Ningiukulu Teevee: is a Canadian Inuit writer and visual artist.
Terri Mack: She is an active member of the Nanaimo community contributing workshops to schools and organizations, and she continues to write as a Strong Nations author.
Perry Smith: As a passionate educator, Perry is dedicated to sharing Indigenous perspectives and worldviews with all learners. He is best known for his children's book “Powwow Dancing”.
Children’s Books
When I Was Eight: By Christy Jordan-Fenton and Margaret Pokiak-Fenton
Stolen words: by Melanie Florence
The moccasins: by Earl Einarson
A Salmon for Simon:by Betty Waterton
Educational resources
Molly of Denali: Is an online resource where you can watch videos, play games, and do printable activities. Join Molly and friends on Alaskan adventures, using informational text along the way!
The Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line is available 24-hours a day for anyone experiencing pain or distress as a result of his or her Residential school experience. National Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419