Raising Awareness Through Play Among Indigenous Youth and Children
Manitoba, Newfoundland
| August 2023 -
Indigenous communities are at the frontlines of climate change and are disproportionately affected by disasters. To encourage cultural learning around climate change, the Red Cross has adapted the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® methodology to create a child-centered disaster risk awareness activity focused on Indigenous community perspectives. The Children’s LEGO activity incorporates cultural safety and age-appropriate, participatory learning around climate change, risk mapping, and disaster preparedness to meet the needs and expectations of Indigenous communities.
This activity also seeks to foster discussion around extreme weather events, climate change, disaster preparedness, Indigenous knowledge systems, traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), and Indigenous-led solutions, including the knowledge and experiences of children. The activity comprises four phases: posing building challenges, building LEGO models, sharing the meanings behind builds, and reflection. Activities such as rapid character builds, identifying community risks, planning for emergencies, and assembling emergency kits (Grab-and-go Bags) help to engage participants in constructive dialogue and learning. The activity takes approximately 60-90 minutes and is best suited for a group size of 4-10 participants.
Pilots conducted at two Friendship Centres in Manitoba and Newfoundland showcased participants’ critical thinking and engagement skills, while fostering enthusiasm for safety and play. Feedback from community partners, parents, and children indicated excitement and receptivity towards such activity. As a result of the positive reception and feedback, the Red Cross will further continue to develop and deliver this modality.
This activity also seeks to foster discussion around extreme weather events, climate change, disaster preparedness, Indigenous knowledge systems, traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), and Indigenous-led solutions, including the knowledge and experiences of children. The activity comprises four phases: posing building challenges, building LEGO models, sharing the meanings behind builds, and reflection. Activities such as rapid character builds, identifying community risks, planning for emergencies, and assembling emergency kits (Grab-and-go Bags) help to engage participants in constructive dialogue and learning. The activity takes approximately 60-90 minutes and is best suited for a group size of 4-10 participants.
Pilots conducted at two Friendship Centres in Manitoba and Newfoundland showcased participants’ critical thinking and engagement skills, while fostering enthusiasm for safety and play. Feedback from community partners, parents, and children indicated excitement and receptivity towards such activity. As a result of the positive reception and feedback, the Red Cross will further continue to develop and deliver this modality.