The Chickasaw did not live in villages. They lived in
small camps, scattered along rivers and waterway. They were hunters and
gatherers. Because the men were hunting, and the women were gathering
food, you might think the children had to work as well. They did not.
Small children were free to help or to roam as they chose. Most girls
chose to help. Most boys chose to roam.
Legend says ...Chickasaw women were never
worried about their young warriors. Even very small children were free to
roam about all day with a blowgun and a tiny bow and arrow. Legend says
they never got lost. From the time they were born, it was emphasized to
Chickasaw children to always be aware of every leaf, to see each as a
unique being. So they never got lost. They followed the leaves all the way
home.