Who Is a Suruhåna?

A Suruhåna (su-roo-HA-nah) is a traditional CHamoru healer who uses natural island plants, gentle prayers, and knowledge passed down through generations.

A long time ago, CHamoru families would visit a Suruhåna when they had aches, stress, or other illnesses. Today, these important traditions still live on—and now, kids get to learn all about them!

What To Expect During the Talk

During this special activity, kids will sit together and ask their own questions to a Suruhåna. Some of the questions may include:

• “How do you help someone who feels sick?”

• “What kinds of plants do you use?”

• “Who taught you how to heal people?”

The Suruhåna will answer with stories, kind words, and even let children see and smell real healing plants!

What Kids Will Learn

This is a hands-on journey into Guam’s culture. Through storytelling and nature, children will:

• Discover that plants can help people heal

• Understand that healing includes the mind and heart

• Learn how traditions are passed down in families

• Feel proud of the beautiful CHamoru culture still alive today

Why Kids Will Love It

Kids learn best when they can explore with their senses and ask questions. This activity is:

• Calm and respectful for young learners

• Led by someone who shares stories and culture with care

• A special chance to connect learning to real life

• A fun way to learn about Guam's natural wisdom

Perfect for classrooms, family learning time, or cultural celebration days!

Continue the Learning at Home

Keep the curiosity going after watching the Suruhåna talk! Try these fun and thoughtful family learning activities:

• Plant Explorer Walk

• Take a walk and look at different plants. What do they smell like? What colors do you see? Talk about how people might use plants for health.

• Healing Basket Drawing

• Ask your child: “If you were a Suruhåna, what would you put in your healing basket?” Then let them draw or color their answers!

• Family Story Time

• Invite an elder to share a favorite memory or family tradition. This keeps storytelling alive—just like the Suruhåna does!

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Watch the Experience

Come see what happens when kids meet a real suruhåna!

From asking curious questions to learning about island healing and CHamoru traditions — all in one fun moment at a time!