Finding Perfect Accent Pieces

If your ancestors were Native American, you might want to start teaching your child about their culture. There were several different tribes spread throughout the country, including Apache, Cherokee, and Hopi. Despite some of their differences, they were all using nature's resources to survive. They were known to hunt animals for food while using their fur to create various pieces of clothing and other important necessities, such as blankets.

There are so many things to learn about these people. If you would like to make sure your child enjoys the educational experience, there are several things you can do to make it even more fun to learn.

1. Read Age-Appropriate Native American Books Together

You can easily find hundreds of books on Native Americans and their rich history. However, some books may not be appropriate for your child, depending on his or her age. By reading educational books on Native American history and topics, your child can learn more about the culture and how life was for these people many years ago. Choosing books with illustrations may be even better for your little one, allowing him or her to see the way they once dressed using the fur and skin of different animals, including buffalo. You can ask your little one some questions about how they think the culture of Native Americans differs from the culture of American people today.

2. Buy Handcrafted Native American Jewelry

Another great way to teach your little one about these cultures and customs is to buy beautiful handcrafted Native American jewelry. The jewelry is much different from the types of bracelets, necklaces, and rings that you would find at a traditional jewelry store. They have been able to express themselves through the art of custom jewelry. These pieces are intricate and carefully put together to last a long time.

The jewelry is often made with a variety of materials. Some of the most common materials used include wampum beads, turquoise stones, onyx, and the teeth of assorted animals. There are quite a few popular pieces that both men and women enjoy wearing.

Women often wear engraved bangle bracelets and necklaces made with turquoise beads or stones and other Native-inspired pendants. You could easily find some beautiful pieces for both you and your child to wear. These colorful pieces can match with just about any outfit in your closet, whether you are dressing casually or getting dressed up for a special event. If you're looking for handcrafted Native American jewelry, contact a company like Sunface Traders for additional information.

3. Make Your Own Dream Catchers

Some Native Americans like to make dream catchers and use them as a way to protect those who are sleeping. While traditional dream catchers were made using willow hoop, you and your child can create your own as a craft project using some materials that you have at home. Some of the supplies you would need to create a dream catcher include:

• Paper plates
• Feathers
• Paint
• Yarn
• Single hole punch
• Hot glue

Creating a dream catcher is quite simple. You can start by allowing your child to paint a paper plate with his or her favorite colors. Once the paint has dried, punch holes around the edges of the plate and put yarn through those holes to create a unique pattern. You can tie the yarn strings tightly behind the back of the paper plate and use a hot glue gun to add feathers to the dream catcher as a finishing touch.

These activities could help you teach your child more about the Native American culture and history. Your little one can learn many new things while having fun reading books, wearing jewelry and completing art projects.