Indigenous Perspectives from the Fields: Educators Meeting Children and Families Where They Are At

A First Nation director within early childhood education in central Saskatchewan has noticed family dynamics as a challenge to navigate within the system. 

Addictions, family separations, and the foster care system have made it increasingly difficult to build strong relational support. Intergenerational cycles of trauma and lack of effective communication and coping strategies have made it especially difficult, as support can be mistaken for judgment. These perceptions, both of the system and families within the system, can depend on where the family is at. This director also highlighted that meeting families and children where they are can be a challenge in itself.

Existing trauma can show up as triggers when trying to assist families. Educators require additional support for managing behavioural challenges that the children face, but there is already a lack of resources. 

Their key takeaway: When working with children of trauma, [you should] always have patience and [create] that safe place for them. Always show them love and kindness, and when they want to talk to you always be the ear to listen to them. I will sit with them, even if they just want someone to sit quietly with. Be that person.