History

This document helps parents and educators introduce children to a selection of Dharma Heroes—people who followed in the footsteps of the Buddha—though a series of assemblies or weekly gatherings. Through oral storytelling and inquiry, children explore what is meaningful and relevant about these life stories. Each assembly follows an easily modified pattern with several other elements, including songs, tea, mudras, mindfulness, and more.

Angélica Paljor wrote this interview with Sandra Cisneros published in August, 2022 on Lion’s Roar entitled, “The Sacred Work of Sandra Cisneros.” The author speaks candidly about her own struggles, and how writing has been a practice that has helped transform them. An essential ingredient in Buddhist education is seeing how others integrate their view and practice into their work, art, and lives. Cisneros' example is vital as students work on developing their own voice, and considering how their view and self-expression are inextricable.

This key provides references with links to study the history depicted in Kuan Yin: The Princess Who Became the Goddess of Compassion.

Middle Way Education reviews 9 English-language books about the life of the Buddha.

A review Thich Nhat Hanh's classic text, great for parents, educators, and students alike.

Kristin Lhatso and Noa Jones briefly summarize why a new model of Buddhist education for children is necessary. They articulate much of what Middle Way Education aims to achieve, and why.

"Buddhism Through Its Scriptures" is a 4-week course offered by Harvard University and edX, and is open to all.

This 9-part worksheet set from the International Dunhuang Project introduces basic Buddhist concepts and history to the classroom using source material from the British Library and other institutions.

The ninth worksheet of a 9-part Buddhism Education Pack, drawing in the history of The Silk Road to teach about Buddhist history and culture. This worksheet introduces the Jataka Tales and recounts the Ruru Jataka, or the Tale of the Deer of Nine Colours. It includes cave paintings of the tale from a cave at Dunhuang.

The eighth worksheet of a 9-part Buddhism Education Pack, drawing in the history of The Silk Road to teach about Buddhist history and culture. This worksheet explains the history of Avalokiteshvara and the principle of bodhisattvas.