In addition to learning practical skills, children also learned the connections between humans and nature and how best to maintain a harmonious balance.  These teachings came not only from their parents, but also from the older members of the tribe.  Ojibwe children were taught from birth the importance of respecting their grandparents and other elders of their tribe.
At the same time that childhood was a time to learn important lessons for adulthood, it was also a time for fun and games. One game, which could be played by children or adults, is known as the moccasin game.  The “moccasins” were often pieces of hide and fabric sewn together to create the appearance of a moccasin.  The objective of the game was simple.  There are four moccasins and four balls, one of which was marked. 

     One player was designated to place the balls underneath the moccasins in such a way so that his opponents would be unable to guess the location of the marked ball. A drummer beat a rhythm to which the hider would make a series of dextrous gestures intended to confuse his opponents. Wagers from the onlookers increased the excitement of the game. Activities such as these, not only entertained participants, but also solidified historical traditions and community values. Text by Anna Blunk