St. Paul – Learning Through Play: An Ojibwe Games Workshop for Educators

Join the Minnesota Humanities Center and Tony Drews of Nashke Native Games for an interactive professional development experience exploring how Ojibwe games can be used in K–12 classrooms. Through hands-on participation, educators will experience culturally grounded games and consider how they can support engagement, retention, and classroom learning.

Research on game-based learning shows that thoughtfully designed games can increase student engagement and support deeper understanding of academic content.

Throughout this event, educators will explore Nashke Native Games and practical strategies for integrating Ojibwe language, history, and culture into instruction. Discussions will highlight how games can support engagement, inquiry, and connections to Indigenous learning.

Participants will be introduced to Minnesota Humanities Center resources, including the Native American Lives biography series, educator guides, and newly developed lesson plans designed for Indigenous Peoples Day and year-round classroom use. These materials are aligned with Minnesota’s Indigenous Education for All state requirements, which support the inclusion of Indigenous histories, cultures, and perspectives across K–12 curriculum.

The evening begins with a light dinner and conversation, followed by gameplay, resource sharing, and opportunities to connect with fellow educators. Participants will also have a chance to win educational resources and games through a raffle.

Whether you teach elementary, middle, or high school students, you’ll leave with practical classroom ideas and new ways to engage students with Indigenous histories and experiences. Each participant will also receive an Ojibwe game to use with students in their classroom or educational setting.

Following the workshop, Nashke Native Games will have additional games and educational resources available for purchase.

K-12 Educators will receive 2 clock hours upon completion of the event.

Registration

Complimentary registrations are available to help ensure cost is not a barrier. Use discount code FEEWAIVER when registering.

Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org | Cancellation Policy

Register Now