An inuksuk shows the way

For the adult reading along

A little more to discover

In Inuktitut, inuksuk (plural inuksuit) means “to act in the capacity of a human.” These stone structures can point the way, mark good places to fish or hunt, warn of danger or commemorate an event; some have spiritual meaning. Parks Canada notes that each stone is carefully chosen and that inuksuit are never knocked down. Stone figures with a head, arms and legs are a distinct form called inunnguaq, so this drawing avoids that shape.

The inuksuk on Nunavut’s flag symbolizes the stone monuments that guide people on the land and mark sacred and other special places. Ask your child which landmarks help them find their way, and explain that on the land, an inuksuk is never moved or taken apart.