Nature-Based Expressive Arts Therapy

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APPENDIX C:

Cherokee Drumstick Ritual

Helping Children Find Their Beat on Mother Earth

Keith M. Davis, PhD, NCC

Purpose and goals of the activity

This activity helps children create and use drumsticks made from
natural materials; drumsticks can serve as conduits for connecting
children’s beats with those of nature. Children can identify emotions
by connecting with the rhythm of the natural world and thus develop
an appreciation for the relationship between humans and nature.

Materials needed

• Small limbs, branches and/or sticks from various trees or shrubs
  (ranging in sizes 12–18 inches in length and approximately
  ½–¾ inch in diameter)


• Loose leaf sage and/or cedar shavings


• Pre-cut leather circles approximately 5 inches in diameter


• Pre-cut pressed wool or felt fabric strips approximately 4 x 5
  inches


• Spool of leather string


• Spool of artificial sinew


• Variety of small wooden beads