Moort dandjoo kaadadjiny: Growing up aboriginal kids strong in their culture and identity

Community Elders in Boorloo (Perth) identified early childhood education (ECE) as a priority area for Aboriginal children’s research. This is due to a lower number of Aboriginal children attending ECE programs compared to non-Aboriginal children. Attending ECE programs sets children up for school success and is an indicator for positive life outcomes in later life. Therefore, we sought to co-design and implement a program that encourages Aboriginal children and families to attend ECE programs, known as Moort Dandjoo Kaadadjiny.

Citation:
Whyman T, Jones L, Farrant B, Michie C, Ilich N, Shapcott J, Hill D, McNamara A, Bowie M, Penny M, Pell C, Green O. Moort dandjoo kaadadjiny: Growing up aboriginal kids strong in their culture and identity. Aus J EarChildhood. 2024;50(1):97-109.

Keywords:
Aboriginal health; schools; early childhood education

Abstract:
Community Elders in Boorloo (Perth) identified early childhood education (ECE) as a priority area for Aboriginal children’s research. This is due to a lower number of Aboriginal children attending ECE programs compared to non-Aboriginal children. Attending ECE programs sets children up for school success and is an indicator for positive life outcomes in later life. Therefore, we sought to co-design and implement a program that encourages Aboriginal children and families to attend ECE programs, known as Moort Dandjoo Kaadadjiny.