• Plain, brown paper grocery bags
• Markers in a variety of colors

• Tear brown bags into pieces at least 8 1/2x11 inches. Make enough for all participants. Tear the edges roughly to make each page look like an animal skin.
• Set out markers for children to share.

This activity uses an American Indian technique for sharing a story.

Give each child a torn sheet of brown paper. Invite them to think of a story about a time when they felt their opinion mattered. Tell the children some Native American peoples used the skins of animals the way we use paper, to draw pictures that tell a story. Ask children to use the markers to draw their story, using only pictures. After everyone is done, ask volunteers to share their stories.

Process by asking:

• How did it feel to have people listen to your story?
• Do you listen to other's stories and opinions?
• Why is it important that we listen to each other's stories?

Affirm that it is important that we respect people's stories and opinions.

Be prepared to tear paper for participants who are unable to do so. Encourage participants to draw very simple pictures. Help participants who may need it think of a story to tell and perhaps suggest picture symbols that will tell their story.