June invites us to pause—to listen, learn, and reflect. National Indigenous History Month is a time for all of us to deepen our understanding of the diverse histories, cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Canada. As home learning parents, educators and supporters, we have a unique opportunity to make this learning personal and meaningful—to shape learning that honours truth, connection and cultural understanding.

While we cannot undo the harms of Canadian history, we can choose to engage with the work of reconciliation in our homes, our communities, and through the learning journeys we nurture with our children. At SelfDesign, we believe this begins with listening deeply, building respectful relationships, and integrating Indigenous knowledge as a living, vital part of education—not just in June, but throughout the year.

A learning community committed to reconciliation

SelfDesign is proud to be a member of the Legacy Schools Program, a national community of over 1,600 schools working to advance reconciliation through meaningful education and support for Indigenous learners and communities. Our initial work was guided by an Indigenous Education Task Force, made up of Indigenous educators, families and mentors who informed how we shape programs, resources and opportunities for all learners.

As a home learning parent, you’re not alone in this work. Whether you’re new to Indigenous perspectives or already weaving them into your child’s learning, you’ll find support, guidance and inspiration through our team.

Learn more about SelfDesign’s commitment towards reconciliation here.

Supporting Indigenous learners and families

Our learner-centred philosophy allows for learning that honours each child’s identity, including their cultural roots. For Indigenous families, that means space to incorporate traditional teachings, land-based learning, language and ceremony into their education journey.

Our team includes Indigenous educators, mentors, and learning specialists who offer culturally-grounded support to learners. The values of relationship, interconnection and respect for Elders are woven into our learning culture—values that align deeply with Indigenous ways of knowing and being.

Indigenous learning pathways at SelfDesign

At SelfDesign, we honour Indigenous wisdom traditions and Western education models. SelfDesign’s flexible, learner-directed programs make it possible to incorporate Indigenous knowledge, languages, and teachings into the learning journey.  Children also get the chance to learn from Indigenous Elders and local communities.

We also support land-based learning, which means helping children build respectful relationships with the natural world—something that aligns beautifully with many Indigenous teachings. Outdoor play, observation and nature journaling aren’t just encouraged at SelfDesign—they’re celebrated.

Keeping the river of knowledge flowing, from elders to youth

Hands-on learning is a great way to learn about culture, with the added bonuses of having fun and being creative! One of our most cherished offerings is Crafty Time, a creative Indigenous-led space for learners in K–12. Through hands-on activities like beading, moccasin-making and traditional art, learners not only explore culture through creativity, they also build connection and confidence.

Métis educator Amy Kealey rejoined SelfDesign in 2024, bringing strong experience in Indigenous curriculum, arts and youth support. She works closely with Elder Patricia Monague (Giizhgondokwe), a knowledge keeper from Beausoleil First Nation and curator at the Midland Cultural Centre Gallery of Indigenous Art. Together, they lead workshops in traditional art and cultural reconnection, with Elder Patricia sharing teachings rooted in protocol and language from her Elders.

Elder in Residence: Michael Harris, Gitxsan Nation

At the heart of our Indigenous programming is Elder Michael Harris, a respected knowledge keeper from the Gitxsan Nation. As Elder in Residence, Michael supports the entire SelfDesign community—including learners, families, and contractors—through teachings on cultural safety, power awareness and respectful learning.

Michael regularly participates in SelfDesign events, such as Open Spaces, Lunch and Learns, Real-Time Meetings, Winterlude, and themed sessions—bringing Indigenous knowledge and presence into all corners of our learning community.

Circles of Connection: Opening and closing the learning year

In September 2024, we held an Opening Circle—a space for learners and families to set intentions, connect with the land, and begin the year in a spirit of mindfulness and care.

Inspired by this practice, in May 2025, Michael led our Closing Circle, a heartfelt community gathering to reflect on the learning year and express gratitude.

These gatherings are just one way we honour the idea that Indigenous awareness and respect are year-round commitments—woven into the fabric of how we learn and grow together.

SelfDesign is continually evolving in our understanding of reconciliation, and we remain committed to supporting Indigenous families, educators and communities through relationship, reflection and action.

Learn more about how SelfDesign integrates Indigenous perspectives into learning here.