Native American Myths
Myths from Many Lands Series
What’s inside...
A beautifully illustrated collection of myths from different parts of the world. This volume tells the tales used by Native Americans to explain the world.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-11
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the main lesson was from the myth you just read?
How do you think the characters felt during their journey?
Why do you think the storyteller chose those particular animals or elements for the story?
Can you imagine a different ending to one of the myths? What would it be and why?
How do you think these myths helped Native Americans understand the world around them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child which myth was their favorite and why.
Encourage your child to think about the moral of the stories and how those lessons could be applied in their own life.
Discuss the cultural significance of the myths and the role they play in the heritage of Native Americans.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the natural elements in the myths and what they observe in their own environment.
Create a fun activity by having your child retell their favorite myth in their own words or through creative art.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Through various Native American stories, children learn about the deep respect for the natural world that is a fundamental aspect of many Native American cultures. Stories often portray nature as a living entity that deserves care and respect.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in environmentally friendly practices such as recycling, conserving water, and participating in community clean-up days.
Example Lesson: The importance of community and collaboration
Explanation: Many myths in the book underscore the value of working together and supporting one another within a community. Tales often feature characters achieving goals through teamwork.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child’s everyday life by encouraging them to participate in group activities, help out their peers, and contribute to family projects.
Example Lesson: Courage and perseverance
Explanation: Stories in 'Native American Myths' often feature heroes who overcome great obstacles through courage and determination, teaching children the value of not giving up in the face of adversity.
Real-World Application: Kids can reflect this by standing up for what is right, persisting through challenging tasks at school or in extracurricular activities, and not being afraid to try new things.
Example Lesson: Respect for cultural diversity
Explanation: By presenting a range of myths from different Native American tribes, the book showcases the rich diversity within Native American cultures, educating children on the importance of respect and appreciation for different cultural backgrounds.
Real-World Application: Children can embrace this lesson by learning about and respecting various cultures, trying diverse cultural activities, and engaging with peers from different backgrounds.
Example Lesson: The power of storytelling
Explanation: The book highlights how oral traditions and storytelling are vital aspects of Native American culture, used for teaching history, values, and lessons.
Real-World Application: This can be applied in children's lives by encouraging them to read more, share stories with others, and possibly create their own tales that reflect their values and experiences.