In the Three Sisters Garden: Native American stories and seasonal activities for the curious child
A Common Roots Guidebook Series
What’s inside...
In the Three Sisters Garden: Native American stories and seasonal activities for the curious child, by JoAnne Dennee, is an educational book that combines Native American agricultural traditions with engaging storytelling and interactive activities. The book centers on the 'Three Sisters'—corn, beans, and squash—explaining their cultural significance and agricultural benefits as traditional companion plants. It includes stories reflecting Native American heritage, and seasonal activities that connect children with nature, sustainable practices, and biodiversity. The book is a valuable resource for parents and educators to help children appreciate Native American traditions and environmental stewardship.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
373 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What similarities and differences do you notice between the way we live and how the Native American characters in the stories live?
How do the seasonal activities mentioned in the book relate to the seasons we experience?
What lessons can we learn from the three sisters (corn, beans, and squash) about working together and supporting each other?
Which story was your favorite and why?
How do you think taking care of the environment helps us and the world around us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use visuals from the book to help your child connect with the stories. Point out illustrations of plant life, animals, and activities.
Relate the seasonal activities to your child’s own experiences with nature, such as planting a flower or visiting a farm.
Discuss the values demonstrated in the stories, such as cooperation, respect, and gratitude for nature’s gifts.
Encourage your child to imagine their own story based on the themes of the book, fostering creativity and deeper understanding.
Plan a family activity inspired by one of the seasonal activities mentioned, like a small garden project, to bring the book's themes to life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The book uses Native American stories to teach the importance of living in harmony with the environment.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in activities like recycling, conserving water, and planting gardens to nurture their connection with nature.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The stories highlight how characters work together to solve problems and achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: Children learn to collaborate with others, whether in school projects or during playtime, understanding that teamwork can lead to greater success.
Example Lesson: Seasonal awareness
Explanation: Through seasonal activities integrated into the stories, children learn about the changing seasons and their impact on the environment.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to observe and appreciate seasonal changes in their surroundings and participate in seasonal activities like harvesting in autumn.
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation
Explanation: The book educates about Native American traditions and values, promoting cultural diversity and respect.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to learn about different cultures and histories, increasing their empathy and understanding of diverse communities.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: The book's use of storytelling and activities promotes creative thinking and imagination in children.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to engage in creative arts and crafts and to use their imagination in play and storytelling.