Growing Chefs! Ontario: Resources on Truth and Reconciliation for Families

This contains information about residential schools.

September 30^th is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as well as Orange Shirt Day. With the confirmation of thousands and counting unmarked graves across Turtle Island, we hope families will take the time to join us in learning about our collective history and to listen to the truths from Indigenous communities, so we can move forward in reconciliation.

Navigating how to talk with children and youth about these issues can be hard, but there are many Indigenous voices and authors providing resources and recommendations that are geared towards families learning about residential schools and reconciliation together. We’ve compiled a small list of resources below geared towards learning with children of different ages.

Residential Schools Crisis Line: 1−800−721−0066

Residential School Survivors Society: 1−800−721−0066

Atlohsa Family Healing Services 24-hour Crisis Line: 1−800−605−7477

Resources:

Child Friendly Guide to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission

Note: this guide uses the term ​“Aboriginal” although ​“Indigenous” has become the global standard in terminology. If possible, we should always use Nation-specific terms, particularly for territory acknowledgments. For example, Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, Oneida Nation of the Thames, and Munsee-Delaware Nation.

First Nations Caring Society Resource List

How to Talk to Kids About The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | David Robertson for CBC

Orange Shirt Day Teacher Resources

CBC Kids Video Playlist for National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

Introductory Zine for Youth about Residential Schools by Jenna Rose Sands (ages 8 – 15)

Secret Path (Gord Downie & Jeff Lemire) Graphic Novel and Album Video

Video: David Robertson Reads his Book ​“When We Were Alone“

Book Subscription by Indigenous Authors for Kids

Free Downloadable Colouring Pages by Local Mushkego Cree Artist Hawlii Pichette

Books of All Levels about Residential Schools from Indigenous Owned Bookstore in Six Nations

Books of All Levels about Truth and Reconciliation from Good Minds, Indigenous Owned Bookstore in Six Nations

If you’re able, please consider donating locally to Indigenous run organizations including Atlohsa Family Healing Services, Rezonance,N’amerind Friendship Centre,Nshwaasnangong Child Care and Family Centre, and the fundraising campaign to build a traditional Anishinaabe Round House on Chippewa of the Thames First Nation.

Nationally, please consider donating to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS). IRSSS provides essential services to Residential School Survivors, their families, and those dealing with Intergenerational traumas.