Do the Dig!

For a very hands-on way to learn about Ancient China -- consider archaeology! My children attended a dig on The Middle Kingdom and we all loved it. They learned a lot and "did adult things in a kid way".

Professional archaeologist turned educator Geoff "Bog Dog" Purcell runs a great week-long program - a half-day camp for 5-7 year olds, and full day camps (for 7/8 year olds and up). You can check out his website (dothedig.net) to read more about Camp Activities. In the morning, the children talk about how to think like an archaeologist, dig and dig in squares marked off with string. In the afternoon, full-day campers see slides and hear stories and play games to reinforce the concepts they have learned. Every day there are new questions to think about as the children work to figure out the story of their site. The week ends with a potluck luncheon and a "museum" the children put together. You may be very surprised at how much they have learned!

If you live within driving distance, and know 24 children interested, he can come to you in the spring or fall. If you are lucky enough to live near Albany, NY (or maybe have family you can camp with near there), perhaps you can try one of his summer day camps.

Although Musical Mandarin readers may be most interested in China, he does Viking, Mezo-American, and other themed digs too. For one camper's view of "Big Dog's Egypt: The Middle Kingdom" dig, read his letter to DIG magazine in Readers' Submissions.

For more information, or to set up your own dig, email geofferypurcell@webtv.net (You can certainly tell him that he will be seeing us again!)

(Maybe you won't want to mention to your children that besides learning about China and archaeology, they will practice thinking skills, following directions and working together.)