Well, Aloha teachers! 🌺 It’s nearing the end of the school year, and our students are getting especially wiggly. 😵💫
With summer and Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month approaching, it’s the perfect time to imagine ourselves in the beautiful Pacific Islands while we explore Hawaiian culture!
A fun way to get your students excited about learning more is with this easy and low prep Hawaiian tiki pole craft!
This activity not only sparks creativity but also opens up conversations about the rich heritage of the Pacific Islands. So, get your craft supplies ready and let’s dive in!
Islands of Hawaii:
Hawaii, often referred to as the “Aloha State,” is a blend of natural beauty and rich culture.
Located in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, this archipelago of islands is known for its stunning landscapes, from lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls to rugged coastlines and pristine beaches.
Did you know that Hawaii is the only U.S. state composed entirely of islands? It has active volcanoes, including Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes on Earth.
Beyond its natural wonders, Hawaii is deeply rooted in Polynesian culture.
You can see it in its traditional dance, music, and food.
The spirit of aloha is infused into daily life, embodying values of kindness, harmony, and respect for the land and sea.
If you’re looking to introduce Hawaii to your students, here are a few great read-a-louds to start with!
What Are Tiki Poles?
Tiki poles, also called Ki’i in Hawaiian, are tall sculptures, usually made from a single piece of wood, that contain intricate symbols and likenesses of Hawaiian gods.
Many are symbolic of a family or clan and stood as a record of tribal history. They were traditionally placed at the boundary lines of tribal grounds.
The History of Tiki Poles:
The history of Hawaiian Tiki poles can be traced back to ancient Polynesians, who had a deep respect for their gods and demigods.
They believed that these deities could help them navigate the treacherous seas.
So, to honor their gods, they began carving wooden sculptures, that were made in their likeness and mirrored their personalities.
Tiki poles were believed to embody the spiritual powers of the god they represented.
Later, after the arrival of European missionaries in the 1820s, Tiki culture began to fade away. However, Tiki poles rose to popularity in the 1930s. Since then, rather than being used as religious symbols, they are often given as gifts or used as decoration.
So, in an effort of native Hawaiian people to preserve their culture and history, some of the original Hawaiian Tiki poles were saved and are now located on sacred grounds and displayed in museums.
Supplies:
- Construction paper
- Craft pieces
- Paper towel roll (optional)
- Scissors
- Tape or glue
- Markers, crayons, or colored pencils
How to Make a Tiki Pole:
Your students can create a Tiki pole that represents the qualities or personalities of themselves, their family members, or friends!
There are 8 Tiki faces to choose from (or your students can draw their own).
First, your students can select the faces they want in order to create their tiki pole.
Then, cut out each selected face piece, along with optional grass pieces.
Afterwards, stack and glue each of the face pieces in a vertical column on a large sheet of construction paper or onto a paper towel roll. (You can also roll a piece of paper into a cylinder shape and tape or staple together.)
Next, select and complete an optional writing assignment (included) using the brainstorming worksheets (included).
Finally, glue (or staple) the assignment to construction paper. Your craft is now ready to display!
Save Yourself Time:
Through hands-on activities like this, our students can develop a deeper understanding of the unique cultures in our world.
I really hope you’ll give this Hawaiian Tiki pole craft a try with your kiddos soon!
You can make the pieces and writing assignments yourself, or save a LOT of time by clicking the button below!
Looking for more ways to learn about and celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month?
You can save BIG by with this activity bundle!
If you try out any of these resources, I’d love if you tagged me on Instagram! I always enjoy sharing in your celebrations!
Wishing you a happy Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
a hui hou (until we meet again),
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