Barbecues, beach, kangaroos, koalas… there are many things that people think of when they think of Australia. Why not incorporate some Aussie celebration into your centre around Australia Day 2016!
There are four fantastic elements to consider exploring with children to mark the occasion as Australia Day nears. We’ve even included some ideas for activities for educators and/or parents to try.
Four Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Australia Day with Children
Diversity
Australia Day is a great day to talk about diversity and multiculturalism – ask children what they know about Australia and all its unique people. Use this opportunity to discuss the fact that despite us all being so different in so many ways, we are all Australian and there is respect and a sense of belonging for everyone.

Geography
Break out the map of Australia and talk about the different areas across this huge country. Open children’s minds to the big, wide world – or in this case, the big, wide island that is Australia! Maps can be great fun to turn into an art project as children cover the country in different colours and textures – this further represents the diversity and uniqueness of the country and all its people.

Art
Speaking of art, what better way to go about celebrating Australia Day and its people than doing some beautiful cave drawings, inspired by Indigenous Australia. Handprints, finger-painting or dot art depicting kangaroos, boomerangs and the desert landscape can be insightful activities.

Music
The national anthem isn’t the only Aussie song we can break out to mark Australia Day… Kids might prefer the fun of singing classics like Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gum Tree or Home Among the Gum Trees (maybe just the chorus as it’s a long one!).

As always, we love to see everyone’s creative ways of incorporating the cultural calendar into your services – please do share your ideas and photos with us on Facebook.
These links are packed with resources to help you plan your Australia Day celebrations:
http://www.kidspot.com.au/kids-activities-and-games/australia-day+54.htm
http://www.fleetcare.com.au/news-info/news/fun-facts-about-australia-day.aspx
http://www.australiaday.org.au/events/

P.S.
Don’t forget to incorporate some Aussie food – lamingtons are always a winner!