If you’re looking for Indigenous Peoples Day activities for elementary classrooms, this post will give you simple, meaningful ideas you can use without feeling overwhelmed.
Indigenous Peoples Day activities for elementary students don’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few intentional choices, you can create space for Indigenous voices, perspectives, and learning throughout June—especially around June 21.
These ideas are flexible, classroom-friendly, and designed to help you move beyond surface-level activities while still keeping things realistic for busy teachers.
Day 1: Indigenous Peoples Day Activities for Elementary — Read Indigenous Stories 📚
One of the most meaningful Indigenous Peoples Day activities is sharing stories written by Indigenous authors.
Choose books that reflect:
- joy and humour
- family and community
- connection to land
- identity and culture
- everyday life and experiences
Not every Indigenous story needs to centre trauma. Indigenous peoples are not defined by hardship alone.
Classroom ideas:
- Read a picture book aloud and discuss themes
- Create a response drawing or journal entry
- Compare characters, settings, or teachings
- Ask students what feels familiar or new
If possible, include stories from local Nations or Indigenous authors connected to your region.
Day 2: Indigenous Peoples Day Activities for Elementary — Learn From the Land 🌿
Another powerful Indigenous Peoples Day experience is learning outdoors and connecting with the land.
Indigenous knowledge systems are deeply rooted in relationships with land, water, plants, and animals.
Try this:
- Go outside and observe your surroundings
- Notice seasonal changes and living things
- Discuss relationships in nature (who depends on who?)
- Practice gratitude for the land you are learning on
Extension ideas:
- Nature journaling or sketching
- Sit spot reflections
- “What do we notice, wonder, and feel?” prompts
Even a short outdoor moment can become a meaningful learning experience.
Day 3: Indigenous Peoples Day Activities for Elementary — Celebrate Strength & Leadership ✨
Indigenous education is also about celebrating excellence, innovation, and leadership.
These 3 ideas help students help shift learning toward Indigenous strength and presence—past and present.
Students can learn about Indigenous:
- scientists and researchers
- artists and musicians
- language keepers and educators
- athletes and leaders
- environmental advocates
- community builders
Classroom ideas:
- Create short research profiles or posters
- Watch short videos or interviews
- Discuss: “What strengths do we see here?”
- Connect learning to student strengths and identities
A gentle reminder 🌿
Indigenous Peoples Day activities for elementary classrooms should not feel like a one-day checklist.
Meaningful Indigenous education is:
- ongoing learning
- respectful representation
- connection to land and community
- listening to Indigenous voices
- building understanding over time
It is not only about one day in June, but it’s a great starting point for deeper learning.
Final thoughts
You don’t need to do everything at once.
Even one intentional activity from these Indigenous Peoples Day activities for elementary ideas can help shift how students understand Indigenous peoples, histories, and contributions.
Start where you are. Stay curious. Keep learning alongside your students.
Looking for more ideas?
Here are some easy ideas for Indigenous Peoples Day activities:
