At Milestones, we believe every child should grow up with a strong sense of belonging - to their community, to Country, and to the stories that shape who we are as Australians.
This National Reconciliation Week, we’re proud to share how children across our centres are learning about and celebrating First Nations culture in ways that are gentle, joyful, and full of meaning. These experiences help our youngest learners build respect, empathy, and connection - values that will guide them for life.
Through Their Eyes - Learning That Feels Natural
Young children are naturally curious, observant, and open to new ideas - and at Milestones, we nurture this by introducing First Nations culture through play-based, sensory-rich learning experiences they can relate to.
In the art area, children might be mixing earthy ochre tones to create dot paintings inspired by Dreaming stories. With small hands and big imaginations, they explore the meanings behind traditional symbols - painting a journey line for their family, or a meeting circle to represent their kindy group.
During group time, children often sit together in yarning circles - a practice that encourages respectful listening, sharing, and connection. They might hear stories of the Rainbow Serpent, passed down through generations, or sing songs that celebrate the sky, the stars, the rivers, and the animals that live on Country.
Outdoors, children explore the natural world through a First Nations lens - tending to bush tucker gardens, collecting gum leaves and native flowers for sensory play, or learning the names of local animals and the importance of caring for Country. These small yet meaningful activities help children develop a sense of responsibility, wonder, and gratitude for the land they live and play on.
All of this is guided by our dedicated educators and supported by our partnership with Wandana Aboriginal Education - ensuring cultural learning is always delivered with authenticity, accuracy, and deep respect.
Thoughtful, Respectful and Real
These experiences aren’t limited to Reconciliation Week. At Milestones, we thoughtfully embed First Nations perspectives into everyday learning - not as a checklist, but as a valued part of our identity and approach.
You might hear your child join in a morning Acknowledgement of Country, recited with pride before they head outside to play. Or they may come home excited to tell you about a special visitor who shared traditional instruments or danced with the group.
Our educators receive ongoing training and resources to grow their own cultural understanding and are supported every step of the way through our First Nations education program, delivered in partnership with Wandana. This helps ensure the stories we tell, the symbols we share, and the songs we sing are all grounded in truth and lived experience.
Our Ongoing Commitment to Reconciliation
We know that reconciliation is not a single moment - it’s a lifelong journey of learning, reflection, and meaningful action. Our team is proud to walk this path every day, guided by our Reconciliation Action Plan and our responsibility to create inclusive, respectful environments where all children and families feel seen, heard, and valued.
Through our RAP, we’re building real connections with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, creating opportunities for learning and engagement, and continuing to embed cultural understanding into every level of our organisation.
What You Can Do at Home
Cultural learning doesn’t stop at the centre doors. Here are a few simple ways you can continue the conversation at home:
- Read a storybook by a First Nations author - many beautiful titles are available at local libraries or online, like Fast Fish by Gregg Dreise
- Talk about symbols and storytelling - ask your child what they painted today and what their artwork means
- Explore nature together - go on a walk and talk about what makes the land special, and how we can take care of it
- Celebrate curiosity - encourage your child’s questions, and learn together
Together, we can help our children grow into kind, curious, and culturally aware Australians - proud of our shared history, and hopeful about our shared future.