Early Learning and NAIDOC Week: How Grow Early Education Embeds Cultural Awareness

July 17, 2025

NAIDOC Week is a time to celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. It’s also an opportunity to educate future generations about the importance of cultural respect and reconciliation. At Grow Early Education, NAIDOC Week holds special significance as we strive to embed cultural understanding into our programs and daily practices.

This year’s theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy", inspired meaningful experiences across our centres that honoured traditions, promoted learning, and connected children to the stories and practices of First Nations People.

Connecting to Culture and Country

At Grow Early Education Toowoomba, children participated in a range of experiences that celebrated the rich history and traditions of First Nations Peoples. Activities included collaborative art inspired by Indigenous artists, Dreamtime storytelling sessions, and music and movement with traditional instruments and songs. Educators also supported discussions about the deep connection between people and Country, helping children understand the importance of caring for the land they live on.

Traditional Face Painting

Grow Early Education Bundaberg North explored culture with the children through face painting using markings created with traditional dots and colours. This activity sparked conversations about the meaning behind these markings and their cultural significance, providing children with a hands-on learning experience.

Natural Ochre Painting

At Grow Early Education Darling Heights, children and Educators engaged in a variety of NAIDOC-themed activities such as puzzles and hand flag painting. A highlight of the week was creating natural paint using ochre, a type of rock traditionally crushed into powder and mixed with water to form a vibrant natural pigment. This hands-on process gave children a tactile understanding of traditional art-making techniques and the cultural importance of natural resources.

Exploring Indigenous Symbols 

Grow Early Education Heathmont focused on teaching children about Indigenous symbols and their meanings. Using flashcards for reference, children practised replicating these symbols through mark-making activities, supporting both fine motor skill development and cultural learning.

Community Showcase and Bush Tucker 

To close out NAIDOC Week, Grow Early Education Hervey Bay hosted a showcase event for families. This celebration featured a display of NAIDOC-themed artwork created throughout the week and included an array of Aboriginal-inspired food incorporating traditional flavours such as native berries and lemon myrtle. It was a wonderful way to bring families together to reflect on culture, history, and the children’s learning.

Collaborative Aboriginal Flag 

At Grow Early Education Kelso, children worked together to create a large-scale Aboriginal flag using cut pieces of red, black, and yellow paper. This collaborative project not only celebrated NAIDOC Week but also promoted teamwork and pride in cultural expression.

We are proud to create an environment that encourages and nurtures the next generation to be culturally aware, respectful, and inclusive. Celebrating NAIDOC Week is one of the many ways we strengthen these values in our programs and ensure children grow up with an appreciation for the rich history and ongoing contributions of First Nations peoples.

At Grow Early Education, cultural learning is embedded into everyday practice, not just during NAIDOC Week. We believe that education plays a powerful role in reconciliation and building a brighter, more inclusive future.

Find out more about our approach to early childhood education and book a tour at your nearest centre here.

Stay up to date with our centres to see how they celebrate and acknowledge Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander cultures throughout the year.

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