Orange Shirt Day - Planned For you

Four on‑demand events • Teacher guides & printables • Grades 1-5 • Access until October 31

Truth & Reconciliation Week is coming up quickly, and we’ve got you covered with our new on-demand event bundle – four on-demand Orange Shirt Day events, each featuring an Indigenous author and addressing the message of Orange Shirt Day in a child-friendly way.

What's included?

  • 4 on-demand events – click the books above to learn about each one.
  • No-prep learning activities and discussion prompts
  • Ready-to-print student pages
  • Access to all recordings and resources until October 31, 2025

Whether you use these lessons during Truth & Reconciliation Week or later in October, you’ll have everything you need to make Orange Shirt Day meaningful for your students.

David A. Robertson

When We Were Alone

Students will explore the experiences of Indigenous children in residential schools and the strength found in family, culture, and community.

David’s heartfelt story connects deeply with themes of identity, kindness, and the importance of remembering our history to build a better future.

Nicola I. Campbell

Shi-shi-etko & Shin-chi's Canoe

Students will hear moving stories that bring to life the experiences of children forced to attend residential schools. Through Nicola’s heartfelt narratives, students will begin to understand the strength of Indigenous families and the importance of remembering their stories.

This event will help learners connect with the story of residential schools and their lasting impact on Indigenous children and their communities.

Andrea Fritz

Coast Salish Art Class

Students will explore the significance of Orange Shirt Day through Indigenous storytelling and art.

This event teaches the basics of Coast Salish art and shares a heartfelt traditional story emphasizing bravery, friendship, and cultural connection. Through interactive activities, students will learn about the impact of residential schools on Indigenous children, the importance of reconciliation, and the value of Indigenous traditions.

Courtney Defriend

If Instead of a Person

Courtney shares the story of If Instead of a Person, helping students learn about the history and lasting impact of residential schools in Canada. Her nature-inspired narrative draws parallels between the interconnectedness of trees and people, highlighting how families and communities nurture a child’s growth and well-being.

Single Class Registration

Tickets by donation - choose the rate that's possible for you.

Joyful Learning is a non-profit organization committed to creating affordable educational resources. Your generous donation will be used to support the ongoing development of our events and resources.

Accessible

$ 5
  • For those with lower financial resources.
  • Because we believe access to education shouldn't be restricted by one's access to finances.

Sustainable

$ 10
  • Contributes to our sustainability.
  • Allows us to adequately compensate presenters for sharing their time, talents, and knowledge.
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Equitable

$ 15
  • For those with greater financial resources.
  • Helps ensure financial accessibility for all and allows us to grow and improve our programs.

About our Equitable Pricing model: Our Accessible Rate is designed for teachers and parents who are personally covering the cost of our events without outside funding. If you have access to reimbursement from your school or other financial support, we kindly ask that you select the Sustainable or Equitable rates. This helps ensure we can continue offering equitable access to all. Thank you.