knowledge keeper

Definition: A knowledge keeper is someone in a community who holds and shares important traditional information, like stories, songs, or skills, even if they aren't called an Elder. They are a valuable resource for learning about their community's heritage.

A community member who teaches children traditional songs and dances is a knowledge keeper.

How to teach this in 30 seconds

Try this analogy: A knowledge keeper is like a family member who remembers all the special family stories and songs and teaches them to you.

Ask your child: Who in our family teaches you special things?

Common mix-up: Kids may think a knowledge keeper is just any teacher. A knowledge keeper is a special person in a community who is chosen to protect and share important traditions, stories, and skills.

Examples

Someone who teaches the community's traditional language.
A person who shares stories about the community's history and important events.
An artist who teaches others how to do traditional beadwork or carving.

knowledge keeper is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.

+3 more mentions across the curriculum

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The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗

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