Learning how to teach Thanksgiving in a way that is culturally responsive benefits all students. Far too often, the ways in which thanksgiving is taught perpetuates the dehumanization of native peoples.

As teachers, we may teach a diverse population of students. Teaching thanksgiving in a culturally responsive way, helps students to honor native peoples and their contribution to society.

If you want to learn more about teaching thanksgiving, instead of the damaging and stereotypical ways that we are accustomed to, then keep reading. You will learn something new that you can apply in your classroom.

1. Learn the history behind Thanksgiving.

It is important for  teachers to learn the  history behind Thanksgiving.  Once we learn the complete history, we are better able to teach the different perspectives. This gives students the information they need to make informed decisions about who, what or how to celebrate thanksgiving.

2. Teach different perspectives.

Students need to hear the different historical perspective of Thanksgiving. Students need to be taught from the Native people’s perspective and the colonialist’s perspective, so they are able to come to their own conclusion based on what they have learned.

Once students come to their own conclusion, they will no longer perpetuate stereotypical narratives.

3. Choose literature that accurately tells the history.

• According to American Indian children’s literature blog, Giving Thanks, A Native American Good Morning Message, all grades 
• A New Look at Thanksgiving, National Geographic, grades 4-6, are two recommendations that are historically correct representations of Thanksgiving.

When students are able to access books that have an accurate representation, it provides a clearer picture for them to analyze. Books that portray an accurate historical perspective are able to dispel the myths that are taught about Native Americans. Students can then make connections and begin to critically think about other myths or stereotypes that have been perpetuated about other cultures and people.

4. Create activities or projects that celebrate native peoples contribution to society.

We’re all too familiar with the turkey headbands that young children create to portray native peoples, however, this can be damaging if this is all students ever learn about Native Americans.

Children need to understand the significance of Native American wear, their practices, beliefs and systems to get a better picture of how Native Americans lived in the past.

One activity could be to have children can do is to learn about the parts of the Native American headwear and its significance to Native American Culture.

Children can also learn about Native Americans from the present day perspective and if their traditions and cultures are still practiced. Children can then compare and contrast to headwear that may be present in their culture.

 Students can become the historian by looking at interactive primary and secondary sources such as those offered by plimoth.org. 

 When we teach students the stereotypical narratives and myths about Thanksgiving; it’s a disservice to students. We need to equip students with the knowledge so that they are able to become critical thinkers.

What are some ways that you teach Thanksgiving?