In our efforts to build wellness and resilience through TIC strategies for keiki “children”, we have a unique opportunity to incorporate the rich and diverse traditions of Indigenous cultures. By integrating Indigenous cultural practices and values, we can create an environment that not only supports our keikiʻs emotional well-being but also honors our heritage. In this blog post, we will explore how childcare providers can incorporate Indigenous culture into trauma-informed care practices for children aged 0-5 and help the entire family feel "safe and connected." We can help our keiki by shaping our practice and interaction with our cultural values like Mālama “to care for” or Aloha “to be in the life presence of someone.”
Understanding the Healing Power of Indigenous Culture: Acknowledge the resilience of Indigenous communities: Western science approaches focus too much on a deficit mindset. They often point to trans or intergenerational trauma when describing indigenous communities and the struggle with cultural and historical trauma. We should also point out that resilience and the ability to thrive is also passed down from one generation to the next. Indigenous communities have a long history of resilience and holistic approaches to healing. will By recognizing and honoring their traditions, we can tap into a wealth of knowledge that supports keiki's emotional well-being, in some cases even addressing anxiety and trauma.
Cultural connection and identity: Cultivating a sense of belonging and cultural identity is crucial for keiki's overall well-being. Incorporating Indigenous cultural practices can help children build a positive self-image and a strong connection to their heritage. Consider inviting elders- our prized cultural treasures to read to keiki and help in connecting the past to present. It will also provide a much valuable gift to the elders as well (more on this below).
Incorporating Indigenous Cultural Practices: Storytelling and oral traditions: Share traditional stories, legends, and songs that reflect Indigenous culture. These narratives often carry valuable lessons about resilience, overcoming challenges, and the interconnectedness of all living things.
Indigenous languages: Introduce basic words and phrases from the local Indigenous language. Encourage children to use them in daily interactions, fostering a sense of pride and connection to their cultural heritage. This is especially important if the classroom or childcare setting has multiple ethnicities. Consider your morning song- involve family members to share their “good morning song” in their native tongue and teach it to the keiki.
Nature-based activities: Many Indigenous cultures have a deep reverence for nature. Engage children in activities such as gardening, nature walks, or creating nature-based artwork to foster a connection with the natural world and promote a sense of peace and grounding. Consider a Kilo journal (future blog post) for keiki and focus on morning weather and/or moon cycles.
Elders and Community Involvement: Invite Indigenous Elders and community members: Seek guidance and involvement from Indigenous Elders and community members who can share their wisdom, stories, and cultural practices with the children. Their presence can provide a strong sense of community and support. In the past we have had an elder council help guide our calendar, newsletters and cultural celebrations. It is an ideal way to involve the community.
Cultural celebrations and events: Organize cultural celebrations or events that showcase Indigenous traditions. This can include ceremonies, ʻāina activities, hula, mele "song" or crafts. Encourage children's active participation, allowing them to immerse themselves in their cultural heritage. Inclusive multi-cultural celebrations is an excellent way to involve the community.
Cultural protocols: Educate yourself and your staff on appropriate cultural protocols and practices. Show respect by seeking permission and guidance when incorporating Indigenous cultural elements into your childcare environment.
Collaboration and communication: Foster open and respectful communication with Indigenous families. Seek their input, invite their participation, and incorporate their suggestions to ensure cultural sensitivity and authenticity. As mentioned, having an elder council can help in this area.
Professional development: Engage in ongoing professional development opportunities that deepen your understanding of Indigenous culture, trauma, and healing. Attend workshops, conferences, or cultural competency training to enhance your knowledge and skills. Jean Briggsʻ book Never in Anger is an excellent read as she records her observations and lessons learned from a small Inuit tribe the value of never showing anger towards children and more importantly how their cultural practices taught patience and empathy.
Reflect and adapt: Regularly reflect on your practices and their impact. Be open to feedback and make necessary adjustments to ensure that your approach is culturally responsive and meets the unique needs of the children in your care.
Incorporating Indigenous culture into trauma-informed care practices is a powerful way to support children with anxiety. By embracing Indigenous traditions, language, and community involvement, we can create an environment that promotes healing, resilience, and cultural pride. Let us strive to honor and celebrate the rich tapestry of Indigenous cultures while nurturing the emotional well-being of the children in our care.
We invite you to share your experiences or ask any questions in the comments section below. Together, let's create a culturally inclusive and trauma-informed environment for our children.
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