Description
Elders provide local cultural knowledge and advice for educators to support the identity and inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and enhance the cultural understanding of non-Indigenous children.
Elders are identified and respected Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander persons of varying ages within a community who have the knowledge and understanding of their culture and the permission to speak about it. These may include:
- community Elders who have lived in an area for a long time and are respected community participants
- traditional Elders who are descendants of the area and are active in community issues.
Priority areas
Access and inclusion
Alignment to Queensland kindergarten learning guideline
Learning and development areas
Building a confident self-identity
| Building positive relationships
Showing respect for diversity
Showing respect for environments
|
Principles
- High expectations, equity and respect for diversity
- Respectful relationships
- Collaborative partnerships
Delivery mode
Consultancy
Cost
Determined in consultation with Elders.
Audience
Educators and children
Implementation considerations
Considerations: It is recommended services engage Elders with connections to the local area and community.
It is important services build authentic and respectful relationships with Elders over time. Services should be mindful and responsive where circumstances may limit the ability of Elders to provide support, such as transport barriers and health concerns.
Contacts: Services can contact local networks, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled organisations and community leaders to find Elders.