” Yes it’s that time of the year again when Chief 10 Bears visits the daycares and schools around the area. Today I went to Little House of Hugs run by my niece Jayme McElvany. The 20 kids and four adults had a good time learning about Indians, Pilgrims, and Thanksgiving. It seems like every year I’ve accumulated more “show and tell” items to use in my talks.
One of the major things I do is show them various animal pelts, and hides, which the kids really get into. I have deer, mink, rabbit, fox, beaver, skunk, weasel, and a huge wolf, which I always save for last. The wolf hide came from one of my trips to Quebec, and it’s a dandy! Six and a half foot nose to tail, and usually the audience is really impressed. I’d say the skunk runs a close second, as far as “squeals” of delight go. The boys like to try and scare the girls with that black and white critter, cause boys aren’t afraid of anything right? The beaver also goes over big, as the fur is soft and luxurious. I usually give a little history lesson about the history of the beaver, and what an important part it played in shaping our nation.
Over the years I’ve made replicas of lances, talking sticks, arrows, quivers, dance rattles, bear claw necklaces, peace pipes, trade beads, and other jewelry. I have arrow heads, horns, antler whistles, and wing bone turkey calls to display. Today I brought a bag of turkey feathers, and let each child pick one to take home. Before I wound things up I read them the thanksgiving story, and then gave them a little test when I was done. I’ve got a couple more schools lined -up before Thursday, so I won’t be getting back in the woods anytime soon. No matter; I’m having a good time with the little guys and gals.
Mike
Well – that’s awesome! I honestly don’t remember much about grade school (let alone daycare!) but I tell you what I do remember – when a visitor came to class to share about things. I remember a fireman coming to my first grade class room, I remember a trapper come in second grade and show us different traps as well as guns and what not (boy, would you get in trouble for that these days) I remember some members of the forest service coming to one of our classes – those are the things I remember – and I’m sure these kids will remember Chief Ten Bears.
What a great thing that you do Mike. Keep it up sir!
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