"Let us put our heads together
and see what life we will make for our children."
- Tatanka lotanka (Sitting Bull)
The Teaching Drum Children's Culture is a vital part of the intentional community called Nad'mad'ewening (Ojibwe for support camp), and is modeled after the traditional, holistic approach to childrearing that is intrinsic to Native clan living. Children are free to watch and take part in group projects, discussions, and social events, as well as to wander and explore on their own. In the process, they create a rich and functional world among themselves--a children's culture.
Their culture is a sacred space, separate and distinct from that of the adults. At its best, the children generally take care of themselves while the adults watch over them. Because the children have the opportunity to provide for themselves, their culture revolves on its own and provides many of its own needs. They learn the ways of respect, conflict resolution, cooperation, and providing for safety and security. When the time comes for their rite of passage into adulthood, they are naturally ready to assume parallel roles in the adult culture.
We welcome parents with children of any age to come and join us in our child-focused circle of support, healing, and growth. Together we guide and encourage our children's natural potential to be self-motivated learners, teachers and caregivers. Their effortless ability to speak their truths and be present in the moment is an inspiring example for us adults.
"Children are the happiest, healthiest and best nourished in all ways when they are outside and with other children of varied ages, under the watchful eye of adults. Our children need this every day and as much of the day as possible."
- Tamarack Song, Blossoming the Child