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Hand Games
Hand games are a fun traditional activity for students. They do not require much preparation or supplies, but can lend to a creative and interactive learning environment.
It can be beneficial to have your schools ASSW or AYCW to help facilitate these activities.
There are sets available through the Indigenous Education Centre that can be easily accessed.
For Lesson Plans:
http://www.denegames.ca/dene-games/hand-games-rules.html
Beading
Glass beading is a creative outlet celebrated by many Indigenous cultures and groups. There are many lessons regarding beading and the celebratory and decorative nature of this activity. Bernice Shadow is an excellent resource available to guide and offer teachings to groups of students. On Fridays, there are beading workshops at the Indigenous Education Centre. Some examples of beading projects include, but are not limited to:
- Vamps (the tongue) of moccasins
- Dance regalia
- Jewellery
Traditional Dance
Many communities celebrate different types of dance. Dane-zaa people do not traditionally participate in Powwows and Powwow dancing, but there are many people that participate in these events as a cultural and social activity. Circle dance is another powerful social event.
As mentioned under the Protocol tab, the SD 60 Spirit of the Peace Dancers have been together since 2001. Students meet on Mondays. These students dance several traditional forms of dance including:
- Jingle
- Fancy
- Traditional
- Grass
There are also wonderful Elders and Resource People that are available to interact with students. In particular, Metis jigging with Bev Lambert and Elsie Lace (please see Elders/Role Models/ Resource People Page)
Drumming
In Dane-zaa culture, drumming is a male activity. Drummers meet at the Indigenous Education on Mondays, where young men come together to learn the traditional and healing practices.
Drummers have the opportunity to make their own drums. This is a sacred process. This process includes the soaking and stretching of a hide and placing the hide over the appropriate ring. Many people have their drums blessed in ceremonies (ie. Sweat Lodges) before playing them.
We are fortunate to live and play in a community that is home to the Doig River Drummers. This drumming group is an all male collective that celebrate traditional drumming. Some of these community members might be interested in sharing their knowledge with students during a cultural event or workshop (please see Elders/Role Models/Resource People)
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