How I was immersed in Indigenous culture as an Early Childhood Studies student during the Bear Moon-themed Community Storytime event

When walking into the Native Child and Family Services of Toronto EarlyON Centre for the Bear Moon-themed Community Storytime event, I instantly felt how intentional the space was. Everything felt rooted in Indigenous culture: posters of animals significant to the community, wooden toys, phrases written in the traditional language, fur covered couches, and carpets featuring animals. The environment felt grounded, warm, and alive within the culture, which is not something you typically see at EarlyON centres.

As families entered, many chose to participate in smudging, a traditional Indigenous cleansing ceremony, involving the burning of sacred medical herbs. The families and children who took part gently guided the smoke from the tops of their heads down to their hearts. I decided to smudge as well. It felt important to fully belong in the space by stepping in, not just physically, but spiritually too. Experiencing this ceremony firsthand guided my mind to feel more connected to the environment, to the families, and the present moment.

During story time and singing, the kids were expressive with their feelings. They weren’t shy about telling us what they enjoyed or asking questions mid story. Their attention spans were short, but their energy was big enough to light up the space. I chose not to read my book because I knew they might struggle sitting through it. Instead, I sang “If you’re a bear and you know it,” and they absolutely loved it. The kids and families chiming in to sing along made everything feel collective, like we were all sharing the same ecstatic moment instead of watching a performance.

Afterward, we moved to the activity stations, where I took part in making bookmarks for Black Heritage Month using colours that hold significance in Indigenous cultures, like oranges, reds, yellows, and greens. The educator with me was warm and engaging, which made it easy for families to participate comfortably. It was a joyful moment watching the kids carefully choose their designs with their markers, gemstones, and beads. Some even made extra bookmarks for their siblings at home who couldn’t make it to the event. It was a small but meaningful act of care.

This entire experience meant a lot to me. I was going into an environment where I was observing a culture that carries deep history and resilience, and I felt grateful to be welcomed with open arms. I didn’t feel like an outsider; I felt included.

I left this experience having learned more about the significance of the Bear Moon, the second moon of creation, and how it represents rest and reflection, like the bear during hibernation. It’s a reminder that slowing down, taking deep rests is medicine as well. More than anything, I learned how deeply a culturally-rooted, welcoming environment can make everyone feel like they belong; a significant lesson as I strive to become an early childhood professional.

Written by Early Childhood Studies student Karmen Grewal