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Thanksgiving is my all-time favorite holiday. As a mom, sharing this special day with my children adds to its joy. However, I recognize that this holiday carries a complicated history that we can’t ignore. This year, I aim to share the true essence of Thanksgiving with my kids — it goes beyond turkey and sweet potato pie. It’s time to convey the real story in a way they can grasp.
Matika Wilbur, a member of the Swinomish and Tulalip tribes, suggests starting with the truth and presenting a nuanced narrative. Kids are perceptive and capable of understanding complex topics. Paula Peters, a Wampanoag historian, points out that the Wampanoag people have often been overlooked, and their history is vital to understanding the full story. She emphasizes that the Wampanoag were initially cautious about engaging with the Puritans, as their past experiences with outsiders were not positive.
To help kids relate, I plan to discuss the challenges of meeting new people, especially those who are different in appearance and language. Though we teach kindness, it’s important for them to consider the discomfort that can accompany such encounters. For my six-year-old twin daughters, I will emphasize that holidays, including Thanksgiving, are about family unity.
Before we gather for our meal, we’ll explore how Thanksgiving originated. Ibram X. Kendi, a prominent scholar, aptly states that if we want to foster unity, it starts within our families. While holidays celebrate togetherness, we must also address the uncomfortable truths of our history.
When discussing Thanksgiving, my wife and I will share with our daughters that it symbolizes family, sharing meals, and embracing diversity. We’ll begin our conversation by reading Thanksgiving-themed books, which my kids enjoy. Finding the right moment to talk—perhaps during a car ride or after bath time—is key to engaging them in this dialogue. Here are some insightful books to consider:
- Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message by Chief Jake Swamp (Ages 5-11)
- 1621: A New Look at Thanksgiving by Catherine O’Neill Grace (Ages 8-12)
- The Very First Americans by Cara Ashrose (Ages 4-8)
- Squanto’s Journey: The Story of the First Thanksgiving by Joseph Bruchac (Ages 4-7)
- Four Seasons of Corn: A Winnebago Tradition (We Are Still Here)
- The First Thanksgiving by Linda Hayward (Ages 6-8)
Thanksgiving is not merely about food but a reflection on our collective journey as a nation. I want my children to understand that the Wampanoag people are still present and active today. Bettina Washington, a member of the Wampanoag tribe, reminds us that they have adapted and continue to thrive.
For many, this holiday is a mix of family, food, and football, but I see it as an opportunity to appreciate what we have accomplished as a country while acknowledging the work still ahead. This year, I hope you and your family will reflect on our history, perhaps by replacing football viewing with engaging trivia games or icebreakers to encourage family conversations.
For additional resources, consider exploring the Smithsonian’s Native Knowledge 360º Education Initiative or Plymouth 400, created for the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower’s arrival. You can also discover which tribes’ land you reside on with this helpful tool.
Summary
Teaching children about Thanksgiving involves sharing its complex history while emphasizing family unity and inclusivity. Engaging in thoughtful conversations and utilizing educational resources can foster a deeper understanding of this holiday’s significance.