Bringing learning to life in Rockville Centre

Thanks to a grant from the Hewitt PTA, Michelle Ebel’s 4th and 5th grade students were able to spend the day learning about what life was like on Long Island when Native Americans lived here. On Feb. 28 two presenters from the program “Journeys into Native American Territories” joined the students at Hewitt for a day of fun and learning. 

When asked why this program was especially enriching for children, Ebel said, “During this program children were able to speak with a Native American and learn how tools and food were made, as well as how homes were built. They were also able to walk through a real longhouse, touch animal skins and play Indian games once played by Native American Children. This program was both educational and entertaining and as a teacher I find that hands-on experiences are invaluable.”

Students learned about stereotypes and the many hardships that Native Americans have endured over the years, and in the process they learned that both terms — Native American and Indians — are acceptable to use. They were also exposed to the art of storytelling by listening to a traditional Native American story that has been passed down from generation to generation.