What was life like for Aboriginal children in 1788?
The story
This profile introduces an Aboriginal child living on Country when the First Fleet arrived in 1788.
Before this time, Aboriginal children learned from their families how to find food, care for the land, and live safely on Country.
The arrival of the First Fleet brought changes that affected daily life for Aboriginal children and their families.
*** *** ***
This is a short excerpt from a full classroom profile, available as part of the First Australians Teaching Pack — or try a free mini lesson below.
Profile snapshot
-
Who: An Aboriginal child
-
Role: Child living on Country
-
Country / Place: Coastal Country (near water)
-
Time period: Before and during 1788
-
Known for: Experiencing daily life on Country before European arrival
-
Why they matter: This story helps us understand how the arrival of the First Fleet affected Aboriginal children and families, not just adults or leaders
Free mini lesson
Download a free mini lesson with sample historical profiles and a classroom comparison activity.
Compare this child’s experiences with Aboriginal leaders at the time of the First Fleet.
Mini lesson includes:
✔ Colourful and engaging sample profiles for Aboriginal people
✔ Guided discussion prompts
✔ A classroom comparison activity
✔ Student drawing and writing tasks
Instant download - no spam