Learning Story – Reciprocity

The Week of May 27th, 2025
What Happened?
We noticed that a tree, which had been cut down in the winter, was still sprouting leaves.
“The tree is acting like roots.”
“The tree had enough water to sprout leaves.” (even though it had been cut down during the winter)
“We can dig a hole and put it in the ground.”
“Do you think that it will survive? What does a tree need?”
“Nutrients”
“Sun”
“Water”
“Roots”
“Will it survive?
“No”
In the fall and in the winter, we lost two trees. We thought we would transplant one in the spot where the birch tree had fallen down. The youth volunteer and several Bushkids worked together to plant it. Then they went down to the lake to water it. We discussed how throughout the summer, the Bushkids could come and water the tree if they were in the area.
Why is it Important?
The Bushkids are connected to this place. We will return to the site again and again over the months and years. The Bushkids have built a strong relationship with the Land and are able to express that we need to respect and care for it. Planting a tree is a gift to the animals, ourselves and future generations. It is in the middle of our site and requires the Bushkids to be aware of it as they move about and play.
Dene Kede xxxvi
The Land
4.Understand the importance of the land for survival.
Explore ways in which land can be protected and conserved
Know how the land has enabled survival, past and present.
What Does This Mean For Next Time?
When Land leads the learning, no session will ever be the same. Elder Paul Andrew taught us that when a group of people are together we should acknowledge that the moments we share together are unique and will never be the same. We have made incredible memories this year with the Bushkids and we are so grateful for our time spent together with them and their families. We look forward to seeing you around this summer or next fall at the site!