Facts about Yurts

Last week, we embraced gratitude for items and experiences beginning with the letter X. Today, we invite you to join us in expressing thankfulness for something that starts with the letter Y. Your contributions can inspire a spirit of appreciation and reflection.

I absolutely love Yurts! They bring a unique blend of comfort and connection to nature. What about you? Is there something that starts with the letter Y that you’re thankful for? Let’s share our gratitude!

⛺ Round, Rugged, and Remarkable: 8+ Fun Facts About Yurts

They’re round like pancakes, strong like castles, and portable like tents, but yurts are way more than camping gear! These unique shelters have kept people warm and safe for centuries, and they’ve got some fun secrets hiding in their canvas folds.

Let’s peek inside the world of yurts!

🐎 1. Yurts Come from Central Asia

Yurts were first used by nomadic tribes in Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and other parts of Central Asia. These groups moved often, and yurts were perfect for packing up and setting up wherever the herd led them!

🌀 2. They’re Always Circular

Yurts are built in a perfect circle, which helps them withstand strong winds and spread warmth evenly inside. Plus, no corners means fewer places for cold air to hide!

🧱 3. Yurts Are Surprisingly Strong

Traditional yurts are typically constructed with a wooden frame and a felted wool covering, whereas modern yurts may utilize canvas, vinyl, or even insulated walls. Some can handle snow, rain, and desert heat, much like a tent and a cabin have a smart baby.

🎨 4. Yurts Are Full of Art

In Central Asia, yurts are often adorned with vibrant textiles, hand-woven rugs, and intricately embroidered cloths. Each design might tell a story about the family, tribe, or region. It’s like living inside a piece of art!

🌬️ 5. They Can Breathe

The walls of a traditional yurt allow air to flow gently through its fibers, keeping the interior cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Some have smoke holes or vents in the top called a “toono”, which lets steam and cooking smells escape.

🚗 6. Yurts Can Travel!

Because they were designed for nomads, traditional yurts can be disassembled and packed onto yaks or camels, then rebuilt within hours in a new location. Talk about the original mobile home!

🎖️ 7. Yurts Have Helped Honor Veterans

In recent years, yurt retreats and healing centers have been established for veterans and their families, providing peaceful spaces for rest, reconnection, and reflection. The round shape is often chosen for its calming energy.

🏕️ 8. Yurts Can Be Fancy Too

Today, you’ll find luxury yurts with hardwood floors, beds, bathrooms, and even Wi-Fi. Whether they’re used for glamping, classrooms, or backyard hideouts, yurts are stylish and flexible!

🌟 Bonus Round-Room Trivia!

• A yurt’s roof is often supported by central columns called “bagana”—no nails required!
• Traditional Mongolian families set up their yurts with spiritual meaning, like placing the door facing south.
• Some modern yurts are used as eco-friendly homes, thanks to their low footprint and natural temperature balance.

There is so much to be thankful for! Expressing gratitude enhances your well-being and brings joy to both yourself and those around you. Always remember to embrace gratitude!

Next week, we’ll come together to celebrate all the beautiful things that start with the letter Z. Let's take a moment to appreciate everything, from our cozy comforts to the fascinating curiosities around us. It's a wonderful opportunity to embrace and honor the joyful aspects of life that start with this special letter. Together, we can create a warm and inviting space to share our love for these treasures!

Get your worksheet here:

🛖 Y Is for Yurt: “Build-a-Yurt of Belonging”

Let kids explore how yurts provide warmth, safety, and a sense of connection. Then create their own paper yurts filled with things that make them feel at home and thankful.

🎨 What You’ll Need:

• Circular paper templates or a printable yurt outline
• Construction paper, markers, glue, scissors
• Optional: popsicle sticks or pipe cleaners for frame textures
• Gratitude prompt: “What makes a home feel safe and warm?”

🖍️ Activity Instructions:

Part 1: Learn About Yurts

Share simple info:

• Yurts are round, tent-like homes used for centuries by nomadic people in Mongolia and Central Asia.
• Their circular shape makes them sturdy and cozy.
• Families gather inside for meals, stories, and warmth.

Part 2: Create Your Yurt of Gratitude

1. Decorate the outside with designs, symbols, or drawings that represent what “home” means to each child, such as pets, blankets, music, laughter, or favorite smells.

2. On the inside panel or door, write or draw what they’re thankful for in their own homes.

   • “Mom's soup when I’m sick”
   • “My reading nook with the soft pillow”
   • “A hug when I need it”

3. Optional: Design a mini “community yurt village” with multiple yurts linked by kindness paths or story trails.

🛖 Bonus Extensions:

• Ask: What would you bring into your yurt to feel loved and happy?
• Write a short story called “The Thankful Yurt,” where kids imagine what their yurt would say or dream.
• Explore other global shelters (igloo, hut, treehouse) and compare how people live with gratitude around the world.

Books about Yurts/Gers:

1. Story of the Mongolian Tent House by Dashdondog Jamba

2. Practical Yurts: by Steven Hatch

3. Wonderful Houses Around the World by Yoshio Komatsu

4. A Place Called Home: by Kate Baker

Hey parents and caretakers! When it's storytime, make sure to choose books that are perfect for little ears and curious minds. Happy reading!

 

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