Observing Native American Heritage Month With Kids
In the United States, Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated on the second Monday in October, and November is Native American Heritage Month. If you’re looking for ways to involve your kids, here are a few ideas…
A Note About Terminology
When we talk about this important observance, it’s helpful to think about the words we use. Many Native and Indigenous people appreciate being referred to by their specific tribal names, like Navajo, Cherokee, or Lakota. This recognizes the rich diversity among Native nations.
When speaking more broadly, people have different preferences for collective terms. Some feel most comfortable with “Native American,” while others prefer “American Indian,” “Indigenous,” or “First Nations.” There’s no one perfect term that works for everyone, as personal and community preferences vary quite a bit.
The best approach is to listen and pay attention to how individuals and communities refer to themselves. It’s perfectly okay to respectfully ask which terms people prefer if you’re unsure. The key is showing genuine interest and respect for each person’s identity and heritage.
Art & Craft Projects By/Featuring Native Artists
- Explore Minneapolis Institute of Art’s Native Art, Native Voices: A Resource for K-12 Learners
- Try this Parfleche-inspired activity from Navajo artist Melanie Yazzie
- Go on The Heard Museum’s virtual field trips + lesson plans
- Download this free printable storytelling and puppet-making activity from The Burke Museum and artist & storyteller Tulalip artist Ty Juvinel.
- Make a sorting box with reference to Hopi Eagle Dancer by Hopi artist Dan Namingha
- Visit the artist lessons from the Eiteljorg Museum
- Discover a new favorite Native artist with the Anti-Racist Art Teachers’ Indigenous artist list
- Read Bowwow Powwow and download free printable coloring pages from illustrator Jonathan Thunder
- Download The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture’s MIAC 2020 Coloring Book
Native Children’s Book Lists
Our Favorite Places to Find Great Reading Recommendations for Kids
- Download the First Nations’ recommended reading list for kids
- Browse the book lists from Indigenous Reads Rising
- Pick out some good reads from Birchbark Books’ collections for young readers
- Discover a great new book, or reassess old favorites through a fresh lens with American Indians in Children’s Literature
Lesson Plans and Educational Resources
Celebrating diversity ALL year
National Black History Month
OBSERVED IN FEBRUARY
National Women’s History Month
OBSERVED IN MARCH
ARAB American Heritage Month
OBSERVED IN APRIL
Asian American Heritage Month
OBSERVED IN MAY
Jewish American Heritage Month
OBSERVED IN MAY
LGBTQ+ History PRIDE Month
OBSERVED IN JUNE
NATIONAL Disability Pride Month
OBSERVED IN JULY
Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month
OBSERVED IN SEPTEMBER
Native American Heritage Month
OBSERVED IN NOVEMBER
