Excerpts
A significant milestone has been reached on Atikameksheng Anishnawbek First Nation, west of Sudbury, Ont., with the official opening of the Waasakwa Children’s Centre. This community-driven, licenced early learning and child care facility is now operational, offering more than 40 spaces for children from 18 months to six years of age.
Plans are also underway to launch a before- and after-school program in the coming academic year.
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Long-held community vision
The establishment of the centre fulfills a decades-old vision first brought forward by a group of women in the community during the 1980s. Although it took more than 30 years to come to fruition, Gimaa Craig Nootchtai confirmed it remained a persistent priority for the Nation. He emphasized the centre’s role in fostering cultural identity from the earliest years.
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Innovative tech supporting language revitalization
A key feature of the new centre is the integration of innovative technology designed to promote Anishinaabemowin language acquisition. The facility utilizes chameleon pens, which are interactive tools that audibly share language when touched to specific materials.
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