Iinii Insights
Kakyosin: Embracing Knowledge through Observation
As Mother Earth Day approaches, it reminds us to deepen our connection to Na’a and recognize the spirit in all life, emphasizing our interconnectedness as relatives.
In "Blackfoot Ways of Knowing: The Worldview of The Siksikaitsitapi," Betty Bastien discusses Kakyosin (gah-gee-OH-sin), a Blackfoot value that emphasizes the importance of keen observation in acquiring knowledge and truth. This principle encourages individuals to be attuned to their surroundings and the natural environment.
To incorporate Kakyosin in education, teachers at NLC use land-based learning experiences that connect students with nature and various subjects like language, math, and science. By observing the colours of plants, the patterns of landscapes, and the sounds of wildlife in local green spaces, students can develop strong observational skills and a deeper understanding of nature's interconnectedness.
At NLC this Week...
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Mon. April 13 | Regular Day of Learning
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Tues. April 14 | Spring Blessing Ceremony with Elder Leonard Weasel Traveller 10:00am
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Wed. April 15 | Regular Day of Learning
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Thurs. April 16 | Lacrosse Residency
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Fri. April 17 | Early Dismissal 12:00pm
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Looking Forward | 21- Elder Visit 23- Knowledge Keeper Visit 23- Spring Picture Day 24- Non-Instructional Day Maatoomosii ‘Pookaiks Professional Learning 30- Principal Advisory Council 12:30pm 30-Celebration of Learning 1:30pm
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Nutrition Plan
MON | Breakfast: Cereal and milk, fruit, cheese Lunch: Brown Bagging for Calgary Kids lunches |
TUE | Breakfast: Muffins, Hardboiled Eggs, fruit Lunch: Soup, Grilled Sandwiches, fruit & veggies |
WED | Breakfast: Yogurt, Nutrigrain Bars, fruit cups, fruit Lunch: Mac n’ Cheese, veggies & fruit |
THUR | Breakfast: Pan Granola bars, yogurt, cheese, fruit Lunch: Soup, Toasted buns, fruit & veggies |
FRI | Breakfast: Parfait & Yogurt, fruit, Banana Bread |
Word of the Week
Speech and Language Pathologist Ms. Kailey
Each week, we will be focusing on a new “Word of the Week” (WoW) at school to help boost language skills. The WoW will be chosen to encourage vocabulary growth, strengthen communication skills, improve grammar, and help your child increase their understanding of language. Throughout the week, we encourage you to emphasize the WoW in everyday conversations and activities at home. Families can do this by reading books and finding the WoW, playing games, or simply chatting about your child’s day together. Helping your child think about the WoW at home will make learning even more meaningful!
Word of the Week | Conversation Ideas | Books | Games! |
“good”
“good” is a word that we often use to describe.
We can draw extra attention to the WoW by giving a thumbs up (a gesture) when we say “good” in conversation. This helps it stand out even more! |
Ask your child what things they are “good” at. We all have unique talents that we share with the world. Talk about the things YOU are good at and the things you think your child is good at as well.
Check in with your child – we are all at our best when our spirit, heart, body, and mind are all feeling “good.” |
If you read a story at home, ask your child if they think the story is “good.”
Check out the following read-aloud books that emphasize the WoW:
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If you’re making a meal, involve your child! Have them help collect random ingredients and talk about whether they would be “good” to add!
If you’d rather pretend, head outside with a bowl and gather some natural materials to make a pretend soup! Talk about things that would be “good” to add (e.g., “these sticks would be GOOD because they are crunchy!”).
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Invite Spring Blessing Ceremony
Niitsitapi Learning Centre families are warmly invited to join us for a Time of Preparation & Celebration Ceremony with Elder Leonard Weasel Traveller on Tuesday, April 14 at 10:00 a.m.
This gathering honours the Spring Equinox in Blackfoot tradition, a meaningful time that marks the beginning of a new seasonal cycle. Spring is a time of both reflection and renewal—an opportunity to look back on our experiences, carry forward what we have learned, and set intentions for the months ahead. Just as the land awakens and renews itself, we too are invited to grow, prepare, and begin again.
To respectfully honour the ceremony:
- Women are asked to wear a long skirt or dress that extends below the knees, or to cover themselves with a blanket.
- Men are encouraged to sit with their legs crossed, while women are asked not to cross their legs during the ceremony.
- Upon entering the space, men will gather on the right side of the circle, and women on the left.
Please RSVP to the main office by email if you would like to attend with your student NiitsitapiLearningCentre@cbe.ab.ca
We look forward to gathering together in a good way as a community to learn, reflect, and celebrate this important time.
Supporting Young Children’s Talking, Listening, and Learning
These tips honor Indigenous ways and traditions, helping your child grow language skills through everyday life. Your Child is a Gift. Children are gifts from the Creator. Treasure and care for them.
👂 Listen
Example:
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Example:
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Adapted from: Tips for Caregivers to Support Young Indigenous Children’s Talking, Listening, and Learning: Public Health Agency of Canada
Weather Reminder
- Waterproof Outerwear: A waterproof jacket or raincoat to keep them dry.
- Footwear: Waterproof boots or shoes are helpful to keep little feet dry.
- Layering Options: Dressing in layers can help! If they get a little wet, having a warm layer underneath will keep them comfortable.
- Spare Clothes: Consider packing an extra set of clothes in their backpack in case they get wet during outdoor play.