Introduction
The crafts, songs and games presented in this manual are only a sampling of the rich folklore available here in Calgary. Those that are included, are indexed in order of difficulty, by culture of origin, and by type of activity.
We recommend that the leader try each activity in advance, to ensure that he/she is familiar and comfortable with the process. This also provides an opportunity for the leader to add their own ideas, to change what does not work, thus enhancing and complementing the programme.
Additionally, we suggest that leaders should at first use children from the group as the resource, and ask them to present elements of their own cultural backgrounds to reinforce children's pride and self-esteem. Where this is not possible, invite representative(s) from the cultural community related to your session's theme. Only when both solutions are not available, the leader should use his/her own best knowledge and skills to lead the programme and share his/her own cultural background.
For more information about the content of this manual, or to send comments and suggestions, please contact Slawa Gruszczynska 403-268-1361.
Arts & Crafts
Games & Sports
Music & Dance
Much of what we know of our cultural roots has been passed down through music and dance. With modern advances in audio and video technology, it is much easier to preserve and pass down traditional music and dance today than in the past.
The origins of folk dance and music go back to the beginning of civilization.
Dance was often a celebration of good life and good harvest; there were courting dances, dances of rebellion, sacred dances, community dances and dances done only at certain times of the year, such as summer solstice.
Many of the contemporary dance movements are based on traditional styls. Jazz dance is based in African rhythms. Break dancing and rap movements often resemble steps from Estern European men's dances. Hip-hop and vogue are derived from the African-American culture in the first quarter of the 20th Century.
The sheer volume of the folklore makes it impossible to include all dance and musical activities in this guide. This small sampling includes representative dances which have found their way into the Nroth American school.s and playggrounds. These dances should be seen only as an introduction to folk dance, not to teach children how to dance. use the dances to introduce differences in steps, rhythms and styles.
Musical Scores
Dances
Traditional folk dances have been a part of cultural identity for hundreds of years. Folk dances are a form of storytelling. They tell about animals, land, and social traditions represented in a particular culture. Dances may simulate animal movements, symbolize planting seasons, or even mark religious ceremonies. Most of the following dances are accompanied by musical scores from the previous section.
More about Carnavalito - Bolivian - Moderate
Special Activities
A new category has been added to the Multicultural Activity Guide, for special activities such as M&eqcute;tis Campfire Banik/Bannock and Egyptian Star-Gazing. Extra preparation will be needed to plan for these activities. Enjoy yourself!
More about Campfire Banik/Bannock
Storytellling
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