Introduction

Little girls' tea party

Picnics, tea parties and teddy bears have been a memorable part of many a childhood; teddy bear picnics, toy tea sets and picnics with family and friends on a sunny day. The taking of tea has ongoing significance in many cultures, whether it is a cup of tea with a friend or a traditional tea ceremony. But has it always been this way? Did our ancestors enjoy picnics, tea parties and teddy bears too?

The Time for Tea online resource is an introduction to past and present life and how it is communicated through sources, such a photographs.  It explores types of play, culture and traditions and how daily life may have changed or stayed the same over time. Featuring photographs from the State Library of WA’s collections, Time for Tea introduces students to how photographs can be used as primary sources in historical inquiry.

This online resource can be used to extend students who have visited the State Library and participated in the Then and Now facilitated workshop, or it can be used as a stand-alone resource in the classroom. The content encourages students to ask further questions, reflect on their family history and make connections with their world.

Time for Tea incorporates a selection of suggested classroom activities and recommended resources to further challenge and engage students. It was produced to align with the Western Australian HaSS Curriculum.

Disclaimer: Content warning

The State Library of Western Australia acknowledges the traditional owners of Country throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to land and culture.  We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. The Library is honoured to be located on Whadjuk Country, the ancestral lands of the Noongar people.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this resource may contain images, names and references to deceased persons.