In an increasingly fractured world, cultural education offers a powerful antidote - one that bridges differences, fosters empathy, and nurtures a sense of global belonging. This presentation introduces The World Is Our Playground, a ground-breaking children’s book series grounded in the framework of Cultural Education and Cultural Intelligence (CQ), developed from my doctoral thesis and now used in classrooms across Australia. The series follows two Australian children of diverse backgrounds as they travel the world - from Vietnam and France to First Nations communities in Australia, learning from Elders, cultural leaders, and Indigenous Dreamtime stories. The stories are more than adventures; they are values-based learning tools. Dreaming narratives like "Why the Koala Lost His Tail" and "Why the Emu Cannot Fly" are presented with cultural context and moral insight accessible to 5–8-year-olds. This session explores how embedding such narratives into curriculum design can support inclusive teaching practices, language development, intercultural communication, and global citizenship education. Drawing on case studies, classroom engagement, and measurable social-emotional outcomes, the presentation offers a practical framework for educators and policy-makers to implement cradle-to-grave Cultural Education that is responsive, ethical, and inclusive. Aligned with the themes of lifelong learning, intercultural dialogue, and social sustainability, this session calls for a reimagining of global education through arts and humanities, grounded in the lived experiences and wisdom of diverse cultures—including First Nations pedagogy and storytelling.

Authors:
Jamel Kaur Singh, University of Edmonton, Australia
Gene Blow, Independent Scholar, Australia

About the Presenter(s)
As an advocate for Cultural Education, using netball coaching and Bollywood dancing to connect diverse communities. Her book series empowers children to see themselves in literature, fostering dialogue and inclusion.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamel-kaur-singh

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

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