Learning from the Lenape: Connecting with History through Games

Today, third-grade students from our Historic Downtown and Swain Campuses came together for an immersive learning experience, bringing history to life through Lenape games. This special event, held at Swain Campus, provided students with a hands-on opportunity to explore the traditions and daily life of the Lenape people.

As part of their social studies curriculum, both campuses have been studying the history of Pennsylvania before European settlers arrived, with a focus on the Lenape people. Students have explored their way of life, including chores, traditions, and the games they played to build skills in patience, strategy, and teamwork.

To deepen their understanding, students from our Swain Campus hosted students from our Historic Downtown Campus, guiding them through four game stations featuring traditional Lenape games of luck and skill. These activities not only provided an engaging way to learn but also fostered a meaningful cultural connection, allowing students to imagine what life was like before colonization. Swain students thoughtfully presented the history and significance of each game with their peers, creating a collaborative and enriching experience.

This event was part of an ongoing academic exchange between the campuses. In the fall, Swain students visited HDC to see their Native American Exploration gallery walk, and both groups embarked on a field trip to Waterloo Village, a recreated Lenape settlement. Next, their studies will shift toward colonial life in Pennsylvania, with an upcoming trip to Kettle Creek Environmental Center, where students will learn about maple sugaring and experience tapping maple trees to make syrup.

By blending historical inquiry with interactive experiences, students are not only learning about history but also forming lasting connections with each other. Today’s event was a wonderful reminder that history comes to life through shared experiences, fostering curiosity and connection among students.