The drumming sessions have been such a meaningful part of the program for both parents and children. There's a calm, grounding energy that comes through the rhythm, and it creates a shared spiritual experience that everyone can feel. The songs and teachings woven throughout the sessions add another layer of learning and reflection. They offer gentle entry points for conversations about culture, identity, and belonging, and they help children build confidence as they participate in something bigger than themselves. The medicine wheel craft has also been incredibly impactful. It opens up so many opportunities for parents and children to talk about balance, emotions, and the different parts of their lives. Overall, the combination of drumming, songs, and medicine wheel craft has created a space that feels welcoming, culturally grounded, and deeply supportive.
— Kat.B
Lance visits our centre as an Indigenous Outreach Worker, and truly, both the children and the staff adore him. He has a natural way of putting children at ease. There’s no awkwardness or nervous energy when someone new enters the space. Instead, there’s laughter, curiosity, and connection almost immediately. His humour is playful and genuine. He weaves silliness into songs and stories in a way that keeps children fully engaged, while still holding deep respect for the Indigenous knowledge he is sharing. What stands out most to me is the way Lance speaks with children. He does not infantilize them or speak down to them. He engages them as capable humans with important ideas. You can see how much he values their voices and contributions during his visits. The children respond to that respect. They lean in. They participate. They feel seen. Having Lance in our centre has been a gift. He brings warmth, knowledge, and relationship into the room every time he visits.
— Hayley Ratcliffe
Coordinator, Silver King Childcare Centre
Kootenay Family Place has been seeking educators to expand our Indigenous Programming and Lance came to us recommended by Kootenay Kids (Nelson).
We requested that he come to KFP to provide programming and education around the Seven Sacred Teachings and the Medicine Wheel, which he did during January – March of 2026.
During these sessions, he facilitated smudging, drumming, singing, and crafting. He used puppets and imaginative narrative to engage young children and adults. He was able to quickly develop rapport with all participants and create a sense of safety, curiosity, and openness. Lance always shares his knowledge in a humble and authentic way that helps participants of all cultural backgrounds connect with the Teachings. KFP is grateful for Lance’s knowledge and expert facilitation skills. We hope to work with him again in future. We would recommend him to any other organization looking to provide similar Indigenous cultural programming.
Sarah Courtemanche
Manager, Neighbourhood House
IÂ have been so grateful to have Lance perform at the Polka Dot Dragon Lantern Festival on several occasions. His calm, grounded presence, along with his generosity in sharing his cultural background and original music, are truly gifts to the community.
Myra Rasmussen (she/her) Artistic Director Polka Dot Dragon Arts Society
I’ve had the pleasure of drumming in circle with Lance over the past few years, and I can honestly say he is an incredible teacher and human being. His original pieces are not only beautiful, but deeply inspiring, he carries a natural musical talent that truly stands out. What makes Lance so special, though, is the way he holds space. There is a purity in his intent that you can feel the moment you’re around him. He creates an environment where both adults and children feel safe, supported, and free to express themselves, something that’s rare and truly valuable in a teacher. He brings such a light, joyful energy to everything he does. His sense of humor makes sessions fun, relaxed, and engaging. It’s hard not to laugh and have a great time when he’s leading. His youthful spirit and genuine presence make him incredibly approachable and easy to connect with. Whether you’re a parent looking for a teacher for your child, or an adult wanting to explore rhythm and music for yourself, Lance offers so much more than just instruction. He creates an experience that builds confidence, creativity, connection, and joy.