Métis resource provides culturally relevant physical activities for children

The Métis invention of the Red River cart that brought the first wheeled transportation to the Canadian Prairies is the centerpiece of an educational resource developed by the University of Victoria to provide young Métis children with culturally relevant physical activities.

UVic’s Centre for Early Childhood Research and Policy collaborated with the Island Métis Family and Community Services Society to create the booklet and activity materials that build cultural awareness and develop sound motor and physical skills in children ages three to eight. Approximately 8,000 Métis people live on Vancouver Island.

“Experiences in early childhood impact a lifetime,” says the centre’s associate director, Dr. Beverly Smith. Sound motor and physical development influences social, emotional and cognitive development that extends into adulthood and can help prevent chronic health issues.

Daycares, preschools, schools and families can use the resources that incorporate physical movement, literacy and art to help young children be active and creative, while also learning about their ancestors. The materials are based on a re-enactment of the Métis Red River cart journey that speaks to the qualities of endurance, resilience, creativity, resourcefulness, protection and ingenuity.

The project builds on earlier work that the centre undertook with partners in the Aboriginal community.

Media are invited to a session at the Island Métis services centre on Feb. 26, at 9:30 a.m. where the kits are being assembled. In attendance for interviews will be the resource’s co-authors (Smith and Métis Ramona Carlson) and Métis elder Patricia Ekland. For details and to confirm your attendance, please contact Denise Helm in UVic communications by noon, Feb. 24.

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