Yeshivat Noam’s third and fourth graders recently went back in time to learn about the life of the Lenape Indians. The Lenape (len-AH-pay) or Delaware Indians lived in an area they called “Lenapehoking,” which means “Land of the Lenape.” Their land included all of what is now New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, southeastern New York State, northern Delaware and a small section of southeastern Connecticut.

Lenape descendant Kevin Two-Steps introduced the students to the Native American way of life by presenting them with various Lenape artifacts to examine. Students were also able to participate in hands-on activities in which they were able to touch and explore Lenape tools and games. Kevin told stories and discussed ancient Lenape legends that reflected environmental issues, character education and building self-esteem. He also performed music through the use of traditional Lenape instruments such as drums and turtle rattles; students sang along in the Lenape language.

By Nina Demaio,  Third grader