Naturally, preschool students are curious about Native Americans when the subject of the first Thanksgiving and the pilgrims is discussed. We explored these native people and their culture through songs, dances, art, instruments and movement.
The Pre K went outside to experience a circle made out of small rocks. Native American cultures have common beliefs in the circle of life and many native symbols are circular. When we gather in a circle, everyone is focused to the center and an equal part of the whole. We can talk or just have a quiet moment to listen to the sounds that are a part of our natural world. Pre K listened to the sounds of birds, the river flowing nearby and snow falling off of a tree.
Students performed the Bear Dance from the Ute Tribe, listened to Native American flute music by Nakai (which reminded them of and eagle soaring high in the sky) and played wood flutes, drums and other rhythm instruments used by Native Americans in a drum circle.
The Circles can represent the change of seasons, life, death, birth, healing and many other natural ideas and aspects of the outside world.
