Paddle Teachings Workshop
Storytelling – Loon and Voice Teachings
Through storytelling, students are introduced to the loon as a teacher of:
The loon’s call is shared as a teaching:
• Strong leaders speak with clarity, not volume
• Our voices help guide others
• Community stays connected through communication
Students are invited to reflect on how they use their own voice and how words can guide, support, or affect others.
After this portion, students often feel more confident using their voice respectfully and clearly.
Paddle Teachings – Teamwork and Direction
The paddle is introduced as a powerful teaching tool.
Students learn that:
• Every paddle stroke represents a choice
• Each choice moves us somewhere
To paddle forward together, we need:
• Rhythm
• Awareness
• Cooperation
Key teachings shared include:
“If we paddle together, we move forward smoothly.”
“If we paddle against each other, we spin in circles.”
Paddles are taught as symbols of:
• Journey
• Responsibility
• Community
• Balance and shared effort
After this section, students understand teamwork, accountability, and shared direction in a clear and relatable way.
Land-Based Learning (Optional Component)
When space and weather allow, students step outside for a short sensory experience.
Activities may include:
• Listening for birds, echoes, or wind
• Noticing how sound carries in open spaces
• Talking about how sound travels over water
Teachings connect the environment to communication:
• Calm water brings clarity
• Waves create noise
• Echo reminds us that what we send out comes back
This moment helps students see that voice, environment, and relationship are connected.
Curriculum Integration
Grades 3 to 5
• Habitats and communication in nature
• Group roles and collaboration
• Expressing ideas respectfully
Grades 6 to 8
The mini paddle and loon teachings support literacy, art, wellness, and science outcomes.
Art Methodology – Mini Paddle Painting
The Art Project
Students paint a small wooden paddle inspired by loon teachings and working together.
Each student receives a mini paddle that is manageable, symbolic, and meaningful.
The art process includes:
• Base colours inspired by water and sky
• A simple loon silhouette or pattern
• Ripple or echo lines representing voice and communication
• Symbols of teamwork such as circles, connected lines, or shared strokes
Optional additions may include painted or carved words such as:
“voice”
“team”
“lead”
“paddle together”
Students are encouraged to use slow, intentional brush strokes, mirroring the steady rhythm of paddling together.
A Focused and Reflective Creative Process
Mini paddles are accessible for all ages and become powerful metaphors for journey and choice.
After the art session, students often feel proud and confident. Their paddles become personal symbols of leadership, voice, and direction.
Workshop Flow
A typical workshop follows this rhythm:
• Grounding with breath and soft drumming
• Storytelling focused on loon and paddle teachings
• Short outdoor sensory moment
• Mini paddle painting session
• Closing circle where each student shares one way they can “paddle forward together” with others
Logistics and Booking Details
Length: 2.5 hours
Cost: $500 per workshop
Materials fee: $20 per student
All materials included.
This workshop combines leadership learning, emotional intelligence, and Indigenous teachings through story, land, and art.
Travel and accommodations are additional and discussed during booking.