Every year on the 26th of May, Australians commemorate National Sorry Day. This day is set aside to remember and acknowledge the mistreatment of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, who were forcibly removed from their families and communities during the 20th century.

What is National Sorry Day?

National Sorry Day is a day of remembrance and reconciliation. It is a time for all Australians to come together to reflect on the past, acknowledge the pain and suffering caused by past government policies, and to offer their apologies and support to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Why is National Sorry Day Important?

National Sorry Day is important because it acknowledges the harm that has been done to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is a way to show respect for their culture and traditions, and to acknowledge the ongoing impact of past government policies. By coming together to remember and reflect, we can help to build a better future for all Australians.

Early Childhood National Sorry Day Activities

Early childhood is a critical time for learning and growth. It is also an important time to introduce children to the cultural traditions and history of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Here are some activities that early childhood educators can use to commemorate National Sorry Day:

1. Acknowledge Country

Start the day by acknowledging the traditional owners of the land. You can do this by saying, "We acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which we stand. We pay our respects to their elders, past and present."

2. Storytelling

Storytelling is an important part of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. Share stories with the children that are age-appropriate and culturally sensitive. You can also invite local elders or community members to come and share their stories.

3. Art Activities

Art activities are a great way to introduce children to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. You can encourage them to create their own artwork inspired by traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art styles.

4. Music and Dance

Music and dance are also important parts of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. You can play traditional music and teach the children some simple dance steps.

5. Sorry Day Reflections

Take some time to reflect on the significance of National Sorry Day. You can ask the children to share their thoughts and feelings about the day, and encourage them to express their empathy and support for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Conclusion

Early childhood is a critical time for learning and growth. By introducing children to the cultural traditions and history of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, we can help to build a more inclusive and respectful society. National Sorry Day is an important opportunity to remember and acknowledge the past, and to work towards a better future for all Australians.

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