First Nations picture books belong on classroom shelves throughout the year, not just during a commemorative week. A thoughtfully chosen book can open conversations about Country, language, history and everyday life while giving children the pleasure of a good story. The key is to choose works by First Nations creators, name their voices and communities accurately, and make space for local knowledge where appropriate.
1. They help children think about Country and place
Country is more than a backdrop to a story. It can include relationships with land, waters, skies, living things and community. In Walk With Us: Welcome to Our Country, Adam Goodes and Ellie Laing invite children to think about their local area and connection to Country. After reading, ask children what they notice on a walk near school. Listen before asking them to draw or write about their own observations, and seek local guidance rather than assuming the book speaks for every place.
2. They bring First Nations languages into everyday reading
Seeing and hearing a language in a picture book can spark curiosity and respect. Counting our Country, by Ritharrŋu and Madarrpa artist Jill Daniels, pairs animal names in Ritharrŋu and English with her paintings. Its pronunciation guide supports a careful read-aloud. Name the language and creator rather than calling it simply 'Aboriginal language'; there are many distinct languages.
3. They make room for honest, age-appropriate history
Young children can begin to ask whose stories about a place have been heard and whose have been overlooked. Somebody's Land: Welcome to Our Country introduces Country and the idea of terra nullius in a way that can begin a guided classroom conversation. Read ahead, leave time for questions and avoid asking Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander children to speak on behalf of others.
4. They widen how children explore science and the natural world
Picture books can encourage close observation of plants, animals, weather and sky. Ask Aunty: Seasons introduces First Nations seasonal calendars through changes in the environment. Pair a read-aloud with a class observation journal. Keep the book's knowledge connected to its source rather than applying one seasonal calendar across Australia.
5. They show that stories are connected to particular people and places
Sky Country, by Tasmanian Aboriginal author Aunty Patsy Cameron and illustrated by Lisa Kennedy, tells a story connected to Trouwerner (Tasmania). Naming its author and setting helps children understand that First Nations cultures are diverse, living and place-based. Invite children to look closely at the illustrations and ask what the story teaches them about its own place, rather than turning it into a generalised 'Dreaming story' activity.
Make the books part of your regular practice
Start with one book that fits your learners. Check the creator and community, read it before teaching, and plan open questions rather than a craft that copies cultural designs or retells a story without permission. Build relationships with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educators or organisations for guidance on local knowledge. Above all, let each book be a book: return to its characters, artwork and ideas, and give children time to enjoy reading together.