Learning about Iran - Persian Princes and Princesses

Salaam. A few weeks ago, we continued our theme of Celebrating Identify when Sofia and her mum, Nadia, taught us about Iran. Before Nadia visited, we watched a video which showed us how big and diverse the landscape of this ancient country is.

As always, Rua students displayed wonderful curiosity with loads of great questions for Nadia. Among other things, they wondered about the mud houses they had seen in the video, local wildlife and the clothing and jewellery worn by the women. Fletcher also impressed with his maths problem solving. When Nadia told us Iran was about four times the size of New Zealand, he figured the population would be around 16 million (after learning New Zealand's population is around 4.5 million). Then Nadia revealed the actual population is 79 million. Wow!

Nadia also explained how rules have changed since religious leaders took over in Iran. Men and women have to dress modestly in public, covering arms and heads. (Although many women only loosely cover the back of their heads with a scarf rather than wear a full burka as we see on TV). This led to a discussion on different rules in different countries. I explained that when I lived in the Solomon Islands thighs had to be covered. Orlando said that in Tonga a male relative had been arrested for showing his chest. A great way for the children to realise, what we think is normal in New Zealand isn't everywhere.

Nadia then showed us how to make traditional headwear, from the north of Iran. Girls and boys both started with the same basic shape in black paper before adding decorative braid and material. Lots of great measuring and cutting practise here.

While Nadia helped the girls add sheer veils to the back of their hats, the boys imaginations took over and their traditional hats morphed into helmets complete with shields and swords.

Hmm, not exactly what was intended... However our resourceful Persian Princesses weren't fazed, quickly drafting the boys into service as their guards.

Girls and boys had great fun dressing up in their new costumes. Many wore them all day and lots of creative play resulted. Some children were even inspired to create epic stories and film their adventures in Passion Project time.

Thanks again to Nadia and Sofia for sharing.