Opal Wonders: A colourful new way to learn about the past

Cover art for Opal Wonders series.
For many of us, a love of history starts not in a classroom, but in a conversation—with a grandparent, a neighbour, or a family friend who shares a story that sparks curiosity. That very idea is at the heart of Opal Wonders, a new five-part animated video series designed for students in Reception to Year 2.

Created with the support of the Port Adelaide Historical Society and the Port Adelaide Enfield Libraries, Opal Wonders aims to introduce foundational history skills in a way that feels familiar, engaging, and age-appropriate. Each episode follows a young learner as they begin to understand the past by having a conversation with an older person in their life.

More than just a screen-time activity, Opal Wonders is designed to encourage real-world engagement. The accompanying resources support students to start their own conversations with older family members or carers, helping them build historical understanding through personal stories and shared experiences.

By framing history as something students can explore through their own family and community, the series gently introduces key skills like questioning, sequencing, and recognising perspectives. It also fosters empathy and curiosity—two essential dispositions for lifelong learners.

For parents and carers, Opal Wonders offers a lovely invitation to be part of their child’s learning journey. Whether it’s sitting down to share a memory or helping complete a classroom activity, it’s a reminder that history lives in the everyday moments we pass down.

Available now through the History Trust of South Australia, Opal Wonders can be used in classrooms or adapted for learning at home. It’s a creative, thoughtful way to spark young children’s interest in the past—by starting with the people they know and love.

Watch episode one of Opal Wonders below:

 

Opal Wonders at a glance

Who’s it for?

Students in Reception to Year 2

What is it?

A five-part animated video series that introduces early history concepts through storytelling and conversation with older generations.

Skills explored:

  • Asking historical questions
  • Sequencing events
  • Recognising different perspectives
  • Building empathy and curiosity

Bonus:

Downloadable classroom and home learning resources encourage real conversations between kids and older family members.

Head here to watch the five-part Opal Wonders series.

 

 

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