Most Americans are familiar with the traditional Thanksgiving story:
The Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock and were met by friendly Native people who taught them to plant corn and survive the harsh winters. By the end of the year, everyone came together to celebrate with a grand feast of gratitude and friendship.
It’s a heartwarming tale—but it’s not the whole story.
History is often written by those in power, and the Thanksgiving story most of us know reflects a heavily romanticized perspective. This year, let’s take the opportunity to broaden our understanding by exploring Thanksgiving from the Native perspectiveand teaching kids the truth about the first thanksgiving.
November is not only a month of turkeys and traditions; it’s also Native American Heritage Month. As we gather with loved ones, we can honor the cultures and histories of the Indigenous peoples who were here long before the arrival of European settlers.
Below are some fantastic resources and recommendations to help you explore the true history of Thanksgiving with your children.
This museum is dedicated to uncovering and teaching the truth about the Plymouth Colony and the Indigenous Wampanoag people who were central to the first Thanksgiving story.
While visiting the museum in person would be ideal, their online resources offer a wealth of learning opportunities for families of all ages. Under the "Learning" tab, you’ll find:
Interactive games like You Are the Historian, that teach kids about the complexities of history through puzzles.
Traditional riddles and historic recipes that allow you to engage with both Wampanoag and European settler cultures.
Educational videos that bring the history of this era to life.
These resources are perfect for turning a family afternoon into an engaging and eye-opening learning experience.
The Native Knowledge 360° (NK360°) website, created by the National Museum of the American Indian, is an invaluable resource for teaching about Thanksgiving from a Native perspective. It offers activities, videos, and educational materials that challenge common myths and provide a deeper, more accurate understanding of the history surrounding this holiday.
Some highlights include:
"The Thanksgiving Story: What’s the Truth?" - This section unpacks misconceptions and explores the perspectives of both the Wampanoag people and English settlers, encouraging critical thinking about the traditional narrative.
Interactive Activities and Videos - designed to engage learners of all ages, these resources bring the real history of Thanksgiving to life. They delve into topics like diplomacy, cultural exchange, and survival, showing how these themes played out in 1621 and beyond.
Lesson Plans for Home Learning - Although created for educators, these materials are easily adaptable for families. They include thought-provoking discussion questions and multimedia content to enrich your understanding.
This site is a perfect starting point for families who want to go beyond the simplified story and explore the complexity of the Thanksgiving narrative. Take some time to explore the content—it’s a meaningful way to honor Native American Heritage Month and deepen your family’s connection to history.
Picture Books for Teaching Kids the truth about the First Thanksgiving
Geared toward 1st–5th graders, this book answers common questions about the Plimoth Thanksgiving from both the Wampanoag and English settlers’ perspectives.
Based on a traditional Iroquois Thanksgiving Address, this book provides a Native perspective on gratitude.
In this Wampanoag story shared in the Native tradition, two children from the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe learn about Weeâchumun (corn) and its role in the events surrounding the first Thanksgiving.
Perfect for upper elementary students, this book presents a historically accurate account of the events of 1621.
Take a full-year journey through Cherokee celebrations and gratefulness practices. This book is written by a member of the Cherokee Nation. A great way to explore how others show gratitude, whether Thanksgiving or not.
Take an in-depth exploration of the Wampanoag people's history, focusing on their resilience and experiences before, during, and after colonization. This story is perfect for 10 year olds and above.
For those looking to dive deeper, Social Justice Books: A Teaching for Change Project offers curated lists of books by and about Native peoples. Organized by age group, this site provides options for everyone—from toddlers to adults.
This website is not a Thanksgiving website, but it is geared toward Native voices and stories. Keep this list saved for future reference.
Let’s Start a New Tradition
This Thanksgiving, take time to reflect not just on your family’s traditions but also on the history and cultures of those who were here long before. By teaching our children the true story of Thanksgiving, we’re empowering them with a more honest and inclusive understanding of our shared history.
What did you and your family learn this season? Let me know—I’d love to hear about your journey!
And if you have questions about supporting your K–5 child’s reading journey, I’d be happy to help. Click here to schedule a free consultation. Together, we can make learning meaningful for your child.
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