NATIVE AMERICAN STORIES BARNYARD READERS

Native American Series

Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m.

Every culture has a rich history of storytelling.  Using stories written by Native American authors, you and your preschooler can explore the stories told by various Native American tribes that once called the Midwest home. Each program includes stories that highlight stories from a different Native Nation, followed by crafts and activities inspired by those stories. You will have a chance to also explore the Ioway Farm.

Details

• Time: 9:30-11:00
• Please arrive 5 minutes early so program may begin on time
• Location: Meet at the Visitor Center (11121 Hickman)
• Dress for weather—program occurs indoors and outdoors

Registration Information

• Per person: $17 ($15.30 for members)
• Child(ren) must be accompanied by a paying adult
• Each ticket is for one session

Calendar

Program Descriptions 

Greet the Dawn: The Lakota Way • October 2

Through the story “Greet the Dawn: The Lakota Way” by S.D. Nelson (member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe), you will explore the Ioway farm with all your senses. Hear how Mother Earth and Sister Meadowlark join all the animals to greet the dawn, experiencing colors, sounds, sights, and smells.

Buffalo Bird Girl: A Hidatsa Story • October 9

Buffalo Bird Woman was a Hidatsa born in 1839. Through the story “Buffalo Bird Girl” by S. D. Nelson (member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe), you will learn about her life as a child growing up along the Missouri River, where she and her family depended on farming to survive.

SkySisters: Ojibway and the Northern Lights • October 16

Hearing the story “SkySisters” by Jan Bourdeau Waboose (member of the Nishnawbe Ojibway), you will learn about the Northern Lights through the eyes of two Ojibway sisters. They set off to the cold north country to see the lights, or SkySpirits, dance at midnight. As they wait, the younger sister learns the values of stillness and patience.

Bowwow Powwow: A Modern Ojibway Story • October 23

This movement-based program features the story “Bowwow Powwow” by Brenda J. Child (member of the Red Lake Ojibway). Hear about imaginative Windy Girl, who attends a powwow with her uncle and her dog, Itchy Boy, then falls asleep and dreams of a powwow where all the dancers are dogs. In her dream, she sees the importance of the dances and celebration of a powwow.