Talking Little Feet

TALKING LITTLE FEET is the newly formed Aboriginal Early Childhood Council, created as part of the Success By 6 Aboriginal Engagement Strategy. Success by 6 is working to enhance the lives of Aboriginal children age 0-6 and their families.

The Talking Little Feet council presently has ten members and maintains strong Aboriginal representation. Many parents of Aboriginal heritage report not having had an opportunity to connect and learn about their culture and tradition but would like their children to have this pportunity.

In response to this identified need for cultural connection, the council is looking to support Aboriginal family gatherings in Castlegar, Trail, Salmo, Kaslo, Nakusp and the Slocan Valley. Nelson already has such a gathering through Kootenay Kids called “Little Robes”. These gatherings will focus on Aboriginal preschool children but older siblings are also welcomed.

The Council is also supporting two members from the region to participate in a traditional parenting practices training. The training will be brought back to our area with a plan to train others who are interested in facilitating traditional parenting groups. An Elders advisory council will be created to contribute to the traditional parenting curriculum in an effort to capture and honour the cultural diversities of our local communities.

If you are interested in:

• Information about the council;
• Becoming a member of the council or giving some input;
• Attending a traditional parenting practices parenting group; or
• Information about an Aboriginal family gathering in your area;

Contact Kris Taks by EMAIL (phone 250-365-2104 or 250-304-3545) or Diane Madland by EMAIL (phone 250 352-6678) or Val Mayes by EMAIL (phone 250 352-6786)

You can visit the Talking Little Feet web site here: www.talkinglittlefeet.com