Fun, hands-on ways to help kids connect with their country — from Dreamtime to democracy.
Australia has a rich, diverse cultural story to tell — and it’s never too early to start sharing it with the next generation. Whether you’re raising toddlers or teens, teaching your kids about Australian history and heritage helps foster a deeper sense of identity, inclusion, and respect.
Here’s a practical guide to exploring Aussie history and culture at home, in a way that’s engaging, age-appropriate, and truly meaningful.
🐨 Start with Stories: Aussie Books That Teach and Inspire
Children’s books are the perfect way to introduce complex topics with warmth and clarity.
Here are some must-reads for Aussie kids of all ages:
🧒 Early Childhood
- “Welcome to Country” by Aunty Joy Murphy – a beautifully illustrated intro to Indigenous customs
- “Possum Magic” by Mem Fox – celebrates Aussie animals and geography through magical adventure
- “Tiddalick the Frog” – classic Dreamtime story retold in child-friendly formats
👧 Primary School
- “Young Dark Emu” by Bruce Pascoe – introduces kids to Indigenous land management and agriculture
- “Sorry Day” by Coral Vass – helps kids understand the Stolen Generations through narrative
- “Our Home, Our Heartbeat” by Adam Briggs – rhythmic, positive celebration of Indigenous leaders
📘 Tip: Use storytime to spark conversations. Ask, “What would you have done?” or “How do you think that felt?”
🎨 Get Creative with Hands-On Cultural Activities
Bring culture to life with simple DIY activities that celebrate Australian identity:
🖌️ 1. Dot Painting with Meaning
- Teach symbols like waterholes, tracks, and people
- Use cotton buds or sticks on cardboard or canvas
- Always discuss cultural respect and origin
🐾 2. Animal & Nature Crafts
- Create paper-plate wombats, koalas, or echidnas
- Build a mini reef diorama using recyclable materials
- Paint native trees, like gum trees or banksias, with leaf brushes
📍 3. Map Your Country
- Help your child draw or label a map of Australia
- Mark important places like Uluru, Torres Strait Islands, their own hometown
- Add family connections or language group areas
🗣️ Learn the Languages of Country
Australia is home to 250+ Indigenous languages, many of which are still spoken today. Introduce your children to:
- Simple words from the language of your local Traditional Owners
- Songs like Inanay or Taba Naba (available on YouTube or Spotify Kids)
- Language maps from AIATSIS to see who lived where
💡 Add a word-a-week to your family calendar or fridge magnet!
