Métis Nation-Saskatchewan Early Learning Conference

At this year’s conference, early learning educators will come together to learn, experience, and grow as they gain knowledge around land-based learning.

We look forward to a great turnout for this community building opportunity as early learning professionals gather to connect and network.

When you register, please choose the sessions or site visit that interest you the most. Space is limited therefore if a session is full you will not be able to choose it during the registration process.

BREAKOUT SESSION DESCRIPTIONS

FRIDAY & SATURDAY 1:00 - 2:00 PM and 2:30 - 3:30 PM

(unless otherwise noted)

"Tufting: A Métis Artform” - Lynette LaFontaine - SORRY, THIS SESSION IS FULL

Lynette will share about the history of tufting, provide examples of materials that can be tufted, and supply the materials for the small group to learn and practice the skill of tufting reindeer hair to create one of a kind art. (From 1:00 - 3:30 PM) This is a double session.

” Li Tabaa Medicine of The East: Reclaiming Tobacco Teachings In The Classroom” - Mandi Elles

This session will explore the history of the tobacco plant, traditional usage and how to grow tobacco in your classroom. From seed to harvest, we will learn how to welcome traditional use of tobacco in our communities.

“How to Listen to a River” - Sophie Anne Edwards (she/her/settler)

In this hands-on workshop participants will spend time on the Saskatoon River exploring, listening to and learning the River’s ecological languages through a range of engagements, materials and tools. The workshop aims to support educators to build comfort, competency and curiosity about, and with, process-based ecological research, land-based engagements, and following the curiosities of children. This session will take place outside so dress for the weather.

“What’s in Your Wagon?” - Denise Skuce

Enthusiastic about engaging in outside play with hands-on practical tools, and ideas? I will show you how to be prepared with tips and tricks for everyone to have a great time, exploring and experiencing the different seasons. Making connections to nature and spark the children’s curiosity in land based education. This session will take place outside so dress for the weather.

”Me & My Sit Spot: Developing an appreciation for the natural world” - Denille Martineau

A ‘Sit Spot’ is an outdoor spot chosen by a child that they will visit repeatedly to build relationships and develop an appreciation for the natural world. In this session, participants will learn about the many benefits and uses of Sit Spots while engaging in hands-on activities that they’ll be able to implement immediately into their own programming. This session will take place outside so dress for the weather.

“Food, Family and Foraging” - MN-S Culture, Heritage & Language - SORRY, THIS SESSION IS FULL

Our team will deliver a presentation on the pivotal role of food in its correlation with health, healing, and community dynamics in the Métis culture. Additionally, our discussion will encompass the integration of kitchen table teachings with a focus on effective methods tailored for children. We will undertake a comprehensive exploration of food-related facets, including approaches to preparation and preservation, as well as insights into fishing and foraging practices.

“Natoohta - Listen”

Our Elders/Knowledge Keepers/Old Ones have the gift of knowledge to share if we just take the time to listen (natoohta). In this session, Elders will be sharing their thoughts and stories about learning from the land.

“Montessori Philosophy Connects Students with the Land”- Dee Aubichon and Cynthia Reimer - SORRY, THIS SESSION IS FULL

Dee Aubichon grew up in a Métis home and feels a connection between her upbringing and the Montessori Philosophy that guides her classroom practices. She and her partner Cynthis Reimer will share how their students connect with the land through their lessons in Botany and Zoology. (Friday only).

“Fun ways to weave Michif into Early Learning Education!” - Samson LaMontagne - SORRY, THIS SESSION IS FULL

Monok Samson will share more ideas on how you can incorporate Michif within your classrooms, workspaces, and homes. Samson has spent the last ten years as an educator learning from Michif Language Keepers. During those years he has created and shared resources with students and educators across Canada. So come join Samson and learn about Michif Prayers, Songs, Introductions, Greetings, Basic Conversation, Family Vocab, Animal Activities, Weather, Numbers, Months, Birthdays, Food, Clothing, and much more! (Saturday only).

“Wildernook: Taking Learning Outdoors - How to establish norms and routines in your outdoor learning space." - Zoe Arnold and Claire Miller

Participants will learn valuable strategies for using playful activities to safely manage groups of children outdoors. Through this experience, you will learn how to establish a defined outdoor play area within a naturalized park space and communicate to children the different sets of norms and expectations that apply there. This session will take place outside so dress for the weather. (Saturday only).

SITE VISITS

1:00 - 3:00 PM - Friday, March 22nd Saturday, March 23rd - SORRY, THIS SESSION IS FULL

Westmount School is home to the Mii Taant leur Plaas (Autie's Place) Early Learning program for prekindergarten and kindergarten students.Participants will have an opportunity to tour the school, hear about the school’s intent and purpose. They will be shown resources and supports available to support the Métis Education Model implementation. They will also participate in a learning activity. Transportation will be provided. This is a double session.

1:00 - 3:00 PM - Saturday, March 23rd - SORRY, THIS SESSION IS FULL

St. Michael’s Métis School of Excellence - Participants will have an opportunity to tour the school, hear about the school’s intent and purpose. They will be shown resources and supports available to support the Métis Education Model implementation. They will also participate in a learning activity. Transportation will be provided. Transportation will be provided. This is a double session.

TRAVEL / ACCOMMODATION SPONSORSHIP

MN-S is offering registered citizens who are Early Learning Educators either currently employed in childcare or as elementary teachers a sponsorship for accommodation and travel. CLICK HERE for more information and to obtain the application form. Applications must be submitted before February 20, 2024.

For more information regarding the conference, please reach out to elcc.conference@mns.work