Hands of the Rain Forest: The Emberá People of Panama

The Emberá people of Panama use their hands to turn the gifts of the tropical rain forest into meals and essential daily supplies. Emberá children quickly follow in the steps of their parents. They learn to fish for crabs and carve a canoe from wood. Nothing is wasted in the rain forest--leaves are used to make baskets, the juice of the jagua fruit is applied as a mosquito repellent, and the river provides fresh water for bathing. Through firsthand experience, children are introduced to the lifestyle and traditions of the Emberá culture.