Embracing Wisdom: Indigenous Education Resources for Native American Heritage Month
Detail of Double saddle blanket by the Diné (Navajo) People, circa 1880. National Museum of the American Indian, Smithsonian Institution. Cat.
As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month, we are thrilled to share a collection of resources curated for educators. Our partner, The Outdoor Learning Store, is offering these materials gathered to not only honor Indigenous cultures but also enhance the environmental education experience. Sourced in partnership with Strong Nations, an Indigenous-owned social enterprise, these resources seamlessly blend cultural wisdom with environmental stewardship. They go beyond being educational tools; they are bridges to inclusivity, diversity, and a holistic understanding of our natural world.
This bundle includes six contemporary stories and supporting resources to compliment each selection. It offers a compelling narrative that not only explores personal strengths, community support, and environmental responsibility but also provides educators with a unique way to integrate these themes into their lessons, fostering a holistic understanding of environmental stewardship.
For educators seeking to weave Indigenous wisdom into their teachings, "Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults" offers an enriching exploration. Adapted by Monique Gray Smith, this edition of Indigenous scientist and botanist Robin Wall Kimmerer's best-selling work provides reflection questions and sidebars, creating an opportunity for educators to seamlessly integrate ecological understanding into their lessons. The teachings from the natural world in this book can serve as a powerful complement to environmental education, encouraging students to appreciate and respect the interconnectedness of all living things.
3. Groundswell:
"Groundswell," a compilation of essays from Indigenous and non-Indigenous voices, provides educators with a source of inspiration and reflection. The essays elegantly interconnect, addressing climate change through the lens of traditional Indigenous knowledge and practices. This collection can serve as a thought-provoking resource for educators looking to incorporate diverse perspectives on environmental issues into their curriculum.
The "Strong Stories Bundle" aligns organically with the mission of providing diverse resources for educators. This collection, written, published, and illustrated by Indigenous creators, opens a gateway for educators to explore Indigenous stories and knowledge with elementary students. These stories not only celebrate Indigenous cultures but also provide valuable insights into the relationships between communities and their environments, making them ideal for educators aiming to broaden their students' understanding of environmental issues.
"Together We Drum, Our Hearts Beat as One" by Willie Poll serves as a subtle resource for educators seeking to inspire resilience and empowerment among students. This moving narrative, accompanied by Chief Lady Bird's illustrations, beautifully explores themes of Indigenous resistance and ancestral connection. The story can encourage discussions around the importance of community and cultural identity, offering educators a unique perspective to integrate into their environmental education programs.
The "We Are All Connected" 10 book series, with its exploration of biomes, ecosystems and interconnectedness, complements the commitment to providing varied environmental education resources. Covering various curricular areas, this series offers educators a toolkit for fostering inquiry and understanding in students. These books provide a unique lens through which educators can explore the delicate balance of ecosystems and encourage students to appreciate the interconnectedness of all living things.
As we celebrate the diversity of Native American Heritage Month, we encourage educators to explore these excellent resources, embracing the richness of Indigenous cultures within the realm of environmental education. For those eager to learn more, The Outdoor Learning Store offers a wider array of books and kits that continue to bridge cultural wisdom with environmental stewardship. Visit their website for more details and to benefit from a special discount using the code "5%partner" at checkout, supporting the Virginia Association for Environmental Education (VAEE) with each purchase.
Additionally, mark your calendars for the Outdoor Learning Store's FREE workshop on Tuesday, February 6th, at 7:00 PM Eastern, where experts provide valuable insights into these and more Indigenous resources. Let's continue this journey of knowledge and understanding, fostering a deeper connection to the environment for educators and students alike.
