Teaching Kids the True History and Real Origins of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is an opportunity to reflect, learn, and teach our children about its true history. By understanding the full story, we can ensure that everyone is seen, valued, and included—building a more equitable future for generations to come.

Where to Start?

  • Learn about Indigenous Peoples: Explore the history of the Native and Indigenous peoples who live or lived on the land where you are today. This learning extends beyond Thanksgiving and acknowledges their past and present contributions.
  • Read Together: Choose books that help children understand Native peoples’ rich histories and cultures and challenge stereotypes.
  • Educate Yourself: Dive into the full story of Thanksgiving and share what you’ve learned. It’s okay to admit to children that there’s more to the story than what’s traditionally taught.

Focus on Gratitude

While it’s vital to teach our children about inequality and injustice, we can still celebrate Thanksgiving by emphasizing gratitude. Use these conversation starters to spark meaningful discussions around the table:

  • What’s something unexpected that made you feel grateful this year?
  • Who is someone you admire, and what makes them inspiring to you?
  • If you could experience life in any time in history, which would you choose and why?
  • What’s one act of kindness you’d like to focus on before the year ends?
  • What’s a mistake you’ve made, and how did it help you grow or learn something new?
  • What lessons can we learn from past mistakes to make the world better today?
  • If you could meet a historical figure, who would it be, and what would you ask them?
  • Why is it important to hear the real stories of all kinds of people, even those not in history books?
  • What’s one way you’d like to help others next year?
  • What’s a big dream you have for yourself or the world?
  • What’s a goal our family can set to support and improve our community together? 

SHOP BRIGHT LITTLES 

Expand Your Awareness

If you’re not familiar, take the time to learn about the National Day of Mourning observed by Indigenous people and allies in Plymouth, MA, since 1970. This movement challenges the false narratives of Thanksgiving and calls attention to the resilience and strength of Native peoples, such as the Wampanoag.

A Holiday for Reflection and Growth

While we can’t change history, we can shape how it’s told and ensure that the full story is acknowledged. By having these conversations, we empower our children to create a better future—one built on understanding, respect, and justice.

Let’s teach the next generation to honor the past, celebrate gratitude, and write better stories in their own time. 💛

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