As a kindergarten teacher and a passionate advocate for outdoor education, I’m always looking for creative ways to teach my students about the world around them. Living on Vancouver Island, we’re surrounded by rich landscapes—lush forests, coastal waters, and a wealth of diverse plant and animal life. But beyond the beauty of nature, there’s a deep cultural connection to this land that deserves recognition. That’s why I’m excited to share a project I’ve been working on, alongside the talented Katie Amos: the Hul'qumi'num Land & Ocean Language Cards.
These cards offer a unique way to connect with nature while also learning about the local Indigenous culture. As we spend more time outside, we can discover how the Qualicum First Nation historically used local flora and fauna, while also learning to say these words in Hul'qumi'num, the language of the Coast Salish people.
How the Hul'qumi'num Language Cards Work
The Hul'qumi'num Land & Ocean Language Cards are designed to provide an interactive experience for learners of all ages. Each card features a different plant or animal commonly found in the Qualicum Beach area. You’ll find information about how the Qualicum First Nation traditionally utilized these species—whether for food, medicine, or cultural practices.
What makes these cards particularly special is their accessibility and the opportunity they provide to learn the Hul'qumi'num names of each species. Each card includes a QR code that you can scan with your smartphone, linking you directly to the First Voices website. There, you can hear the word spoken by a fluent Hul'qumi'num speaker, allowing you to learn the correct pronunciation. It’s an amazing tool for anyone, young or old, looking to connect more deeply with the language and the environment.
A Free Resource for Everyone
We believe in making this learning experience accessible to as many people as possible, which is why the Hul'qumi'num Land & Ocean Language Cards are available for free download in both English and French on our website. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor looking to learn more about the area’s unique flora and fauna, these cards are a wonderful way to get started.
Why Learn the Hul'qumi'num Language?
For me, learning the Hul'qumi'num language is about more than just words—it's about connecting with the land in a deeper, more meaningful way. Language is a powerful tool for preserving culture and honouring the history of the land. By using these cards, we not only gain knowledge about the natural world around us but also respect the cultural practices and wisdom of the Qualicum First Nation.
Get Outside and Learn
I encourage you to download the Hul'qumi'num Land & Ocean Language Cards and take them on your next outdoor adventure. Whether you’re walking along the beach, hiking in the forest, or just enjoying the beauty of Qualicum Beach, these cards are a perfect way to explore the flora and fauna around you while learning about the language and culture of the people who have called this land home for generations.
Let’s get outside, learn about the local plants and animals, and honor the stories that have been passed down through the generations. And remember, as I always tell my students, "There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing!" So, bundle up, head outdoors, and discover the world through a new lens!
Download the Cards
You can download the Hul'qumi'num Land & Ocean Language Cards for free on our website, available in both English and French. Happy learning, and we hope you enjoy this exciting journey of language, culture, and nature!
Note: A huge thank you to Katie Amos for her support in creating this project, and to all the Elders and language keepers of the Qualicum First Nation for sharing their knowledge with us. Together, we are helping to keep the language alive and passing it on to future generations.