March 4, 2013

Hi Hannah,

At my manufactured site, I don't let "my" kids take stuff they have dug up 
home.
The way I explain it is that archaeological items remain at the lab for 
further study.

However, I do have a project for them in repair.  Each kid brings an item 
their parent signs a waiver that the child can have to be broken.  IF the 
item doesn't pass my critical choices (one child brought a lovely antique 
porcelain cup, for instance) I refuse it.

Since some kids forget or don't bring items, or I refuse to break them, I 
always bring extras, generally flower pots and/or tableware that I get for 
free from family/friends, or cheap from junk stores.

I put all that stuff inside a pillowcase and hammer em.
Dump them out.
Kids wear gloves & sort out their item.
They then try to repair them using Elmers glue (its nontoxic).

THOSE items they can take home.

Have fun; sounds like a great opportunity!
S. Walter
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Hannah Ballard" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Monday, March 04, 2013 12:55 PM
Subject: Re: sherds needed for Children's Day


Finding other ways for children to take their experience home is an 
opportunity to teach kids about the value of the data rather over personal 
possession of the artifacts.  Perhaps they could draw or take photos of 
their finds.  Given all the issues we have around pothunting and the 
messages that come out of television shows such as Diggers, I think allowing 
kids to take artifacts home sends the wrong message about archaeology.  I 
have elementary school-age kids myself and I know that though they would 
love to have their own arrowhead or some other special artifact, they don't 
need them to enjoy the experience.

Good luck with your project!
Hannah Ballard


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