Learning Story – Berries and Plants

The Week of September 19, 2025

What Happened?

To set the tone for the day, we did our morning routine of feeding the fire, safety talk, and
practiced asking each other how we were feeling in Tłı̨chǫ Yatıì . We went over our theme of the day! Berries and plants! This caused so much excitement for the kids. In groups, we walked around the site, identified and discussed the different berries. Following that, some of the kids made jam and bannock with Auntie Edna while other Bushkids created their own shops and restaurants. We have some potential entrepreneurs! Some Bushkids were feeling frisky and climbing along the small logs, both sides being tied to a tree.

After a delicious lunch of bannock and homemade cranberry jam! Cranberries provided by the fantastic Auntie Edna. Taylor and Rachel took everyone down to the lake to catch shells, water insects and explore their curiosity. Winding down with some free play.

Why is it Important?

Why is it essential that we educate the Bushkids on berries and plants? Because the Indigenous peoples who survived on this land for ages relied on berries and plants to help them live. They worked extremely hard to seek and pick berries and plants for their families. It was a part of the traditional way of life. It’s the life that they wanted the youth to know and practice. Therefore, educating the Bushkids on this topic recognizes the Indigenous peoples who poured their lives into it. In addition, berries and plants are very healthy and good for you. They’re a multipurpose medicine.

Dene Kede: Plants p. 64

Students will:

Know that plants have life, which must be respected
Recognize, name and pick local plants used for food (we will not pick to eat at BK site)
Know that many people, especially Elders, find great joy on the Land
Know that the Dene particularly enjoy tasks like plant or berry picking because it allows them to enjoy one another while they work

What Does This Mean For Next Time?

Due to the kids expressing a great deal of interest and curiosity in the berries and plants, we will conduct a deeper dive and discuss/identify all different kinds of specific plants and trees at the site. We will also take time to talk about Truth and Reconciliation day and what it means. We will offer an Orange Shirt beading activity as well. live on.

“I want you to know that I really really really like taking care of plants.” Bushkids to an educator
“The dark red berries were more ripe than the light red berries. That jam is more sour!”
“I love cranberry jam!”
“I can hear them popping” – (while stirring the cooking berries) Bushkids