Understanding Kinship and Exploring it in the Classroom
Kinship is a central part of Aboriginal society; it is a system of social organisation which position’s people’s relationships, responsibilities, roles and reciprocal obligations to one another. Kinship determines how people are related to each other, and how they can interact. The concept of kinship remains a very prominent feature of Aboriginal culture today.
Kinship can be understood in terms of having varying levels:
Moiety
Totems
Skin Names
Kinship structures are critical in how people form relationships to others, and how they place themselves in the world.
Further reading for teachers / educators can be found here: Kinship Module.
Great picture books to support understanding kinship in the early childhood classroom include:
Family - Family is a thoughtful contemplation for all to learn the different ways that family makes us whole. This beautifully illustrated children’s picture book shows everyone that ‘family’ can be about heart and home; an endless sky; stories and songs. It ‘learns’ us how to be with each other and with Country. Families come in all shapes and sizes, and this remarkably simple story teaches us all, that family can be many things.
White Cockatoo - This book explores totems; each totem is a recognisable symbol of nature. This symbol has spiritual significance to a tribe, connecting them to the land while maintaining harmony with the earth.
Do Not Go Around the Edges - This remarkable book weaves together the story of Daisy Utemorrah’s life with a collection of playful parables and poems. Exploring themes such as Creation, tradition, memories, family and most importantly, country, Do Not Go around the Edges imbues a simple autobiographical story with humour and depth, and will appeal to adults and children alike.
