Aboriginal Lessons

Since Spring break we have been doing two lessons a week based on the Circle of Courage.  We have been working on our sense of belonging in our community, family, etc.  We recently discussed the unconditional acceptance by an animal and love of the animals for the children promoting a strong sense of worth, lovability, connection, and belonging.

Today's lesson on a quilted family tree, I really wanted to share.  The purpose of this lesson was for the children to recognize that each person plays an important role in his/her family and the lives of others.

We read a book called, The Patchwork Quilt by Valerie Flournoy.  It's about a grandmother talking about a patchwork quilt and how the pieces of the quilt create a family history masterpiece.  The book is beautifully written and I feel the kids really connected with it.

In fact, we made such a connection with this book we decided to make a class quilt.  It's a small quilt but made with so much love.

David Seven Deers

Today we had an elder visit us from the Boundary area.  Thanks to Pete, Kim, Brett, and Vanessa they built us a seating circle outside to sit.  Mr. Seven Deers first lit the fire, and placed tobacco around the circle (as symbol of welcoming and gathering).  Then he had sage in a shell and lit that.  He walked around the circle and released the smoke from the sage into the air.  The sage (I believe) was used to clear the air of negative emotions and thoughts.  I was amazed at how much I was learning and I know I am missing pieces but these are the things I took from the experience and remember.

He spoke about his family and the history of his ancestors.  The animal representation in his family and the way he applied it to the totem poles he built.

He discussed what an elder is and the way an elder should be treated.  He also talked about the respect for your brothers and sisters and that nature is our brothers and sisters.  We need to acknowledge their presence and ask for their permission if we need them for something.

After he read to us one of his books, Heelah's Traum (Traum meaning dream).  The story had such intricate illustrations and the kids were really interested in his story.  

We are so thankful and happy we met Mr. Seven Deers.  He was a great inspiration for myself as a teacher, and for the kids about our history.  I really felt like he left a valuable lesson with us all.  I know that I will take many things from this experience. 

Thanks Ms. Hanson for setting this up and making it all happen!

Mr. Seven Deers has a website if you would like to learn more about him.  I enjoy this quote I found on his website.

"Dreams have shown me my way
and have always given important advice.
I have always followed and respected my Dreams."

Circle of Courage

The Circle of Courage is a philosophy that integrates the best of Western educational thought with the wisdom of indigenous cultures and emerging research on positive youth development. The circle suggests the importance of the shared values of belonging, generosity, independence, and mastery. While the four dimensions of the Circle of Courage can be described individually, they must be viewed as one.  Check out their website for more details.

Our Circle of Courage!

Michael Kusugak Visits BWCS

Michael Kusugak and his wife, Gerry visit our school.  It was awesome.  He told us stories that were over 100 years old.  He taught us about cats cradle, how they lived, and how they made igloos.

Gerry dressed Vanessa in a traditional Inuit outfit.

Sam also was given an outfit.

Michael played the drum for us.

Here is a group shot with the kids.

Michael even signed my book!  We have three of his books: A Promise is a Promise Written by Robert Munsch and Michael Kusugak, Northern Lights The Soccer Trails, and Artic 123.  He has written many books.  The kids realllllly want me to buy The Littlest Sled Dog (so keep your eyes peeled if you ever see it).  What an amazing experience to meet a Canadian author at our school!

Here is a video of Michael playing the drum.

We Learned About First Nation Drumming

Russel Podgurney from the Osoyoos Native Band came to teach us traditional drumming.  We had so much fun learning the old tradition music.  We were pretty amazed that Russel can sing in four different languages and can recall over 400 songs!!!

Here are some videos of us drumming.  We did pretty good for only learning drumming in 25 minutes.

Metis Traditions

Bev Lambert came on Monday to teach us about Metis' various traditions.  She taught us numerous dances (duck dance, Metis Girl Dance, waltz, belt or sash dance, etc.).  The kids were exhausted but we continued to dance for almost the whole entire day.  We also learned how to make bannock.  We made it a bit differently than last time.  We fried it in oil and coated it with sugar.  The kids seemed to really like it both ways: biscuit style and basically like a donut.  We also learned a little bit about traditional houses, transportation, cultural respect, and costumes.  

Unfortunately my camera died and so I couldn't take any pictures.  However I did use my iphone to capture one picture of the girls in their amazing outfits.  The girls loved that the silver coins on their dresses made noise when they danced.

Stay tuned for more photos - I will be getting some from Mr. Bond