Description:
Make a mini totem pole and decorate it.
Links to EYFS:
Personal, Social and Emotional Development
Communication and Language
Physical Development
Mathematics
Understanding of the World
Expressive Arts and Design
Activity:
For this weeks activity we asked the children to start by finding a stick that they could cut to size to make their own version of a mini-totem pole. Once they had chosen a suitable stick they used a bow saw or the pruning saw to cut it to their chosen length. We asked them to decide whether to leave the bark on or remove it using a potato peeler or knife. If they decided to remove it, we asked them to compare the different ways of removing the bark and which they found the easiest and why. Once they had done this it was then time to decorate their totem poles by painting them and attaching various things such as googly eyes, feathers and colourful wool.
We showed the children pictures of totem poles and talked about what they represent - cultural beliefs, a way of remembering ancestors, clan lineages or notable events. We also talked about traditions, meanings, culture and why they are important for many people. We asked the children think of something important in their own lives and to tell us why it was so special to them.
Home Activity:
Talk about your own family traditions with your child and why they are important.