The school holidays are the perfect time to slow down, spend time with your jarjums, and explore fun activities that celebrate culture and creativity. This summer, why not weave in some Indigenous Australian-inspired ideas that connect your family to Country, traditions, and stories? These activities are simple, meaningful, and a great way to keep little hands busy while nurturing pride and understanding.

1. Deadly Baubles for Your Tree

Bring First Nations designs into your Christmas decorations! Grab some plain baubles and decorate them using Aboriginal art-inspired patterns. Use dots, lines, and earthy colours like ochre, red, black, and yellow. Talk to your jarjums about what the colours mean and why symbols are important in Aboriginal art. To get some inspiration head to the Artlandish website.

2. Wattleseed Ginger Biscuits

Cooking together is a great way to learn and share stories. Try baking ginger biscuits using wattleseed – a traditional ingredient with a rich, nutty flavour. While you mix and bake, chat about how First Nations people have used native plants for thousands of years. These biscuits are perfect for Christmas treats or summer snacks.

3. Nature Craft with Seed Pods

Head outside and collect fallen seed pods, gumnuts, and leaves. Paint them with bright colours and Aboriginal-inspired designs, then turn them into ornaments or a nature mobile. This activity encourages jarjums to connect with Country and learn about local plants. You can even research the traditional names and uses of the plants you find.

4. Air-Dry Clay Ornaments

Using air-dry clay, create shapes like stars, trees, or animals. Press Aboriginal symbol stamps into the clay or carve your own patterns. Once dry, paint them in vibrant colours.

5. Dot Painting Fun

Dot painting is a beautiful and iconic art form. Give your jarjums a canvas or recycled cardboard and some cotton buds to create their own dot designs. Share a Dreamtime story before you start, and encourage them to include symbols that represent parts of the story.

6. Bush Bouquets and Necklaces

Collect flowers, leaves, and seeds from your backyard or local park to make bush bouquets or simple necklaces. Use string or recycled materials to thread seeds and pods. This is a lovely way to explore natural textures and colours while talking about how Aboriginal people have traditionally used plants for food, medicine, and art.

Tips for Families:

• Always collect natural items respectfully – only take what’s fallen.
• Use these activities as a chance to share stories, songs, and language words.
• If you’re unsure about cultural meanings, reach out to local Elders or community organisations for guidance.