Practice to Theory: What Families Voice About Early Childhood Education and Their Role in Documenting Success

• In Event: 61.069 - Shifting Native Early Childhood Education: Toward Justice and Inclusive Family Engagement at the Earliest Levels of Education

Abstract

This paper will describe community-based, family engaged, research inquiry at a tribal college. The purpose of the paper is to highlight how Native families are empowered to engage in authentic and powerful ways in the education of their child/children. Native American parents have historically been left out of educational discussions regarding what is best for their children. The tribal college early childhood initiative has created an opportunity to develop a system for engaging parents in meaningful dialogue focused on what they believe is essential for the well-being and education of their children. Drawing upon Photovoice methodology and inquiry findings, parents have voiced their hopes and dreams for their children including culturally-based curricular and community learning opportunities. Through meaningful parental engagement including the Photovoice project, the TCU has created learning communities where children, community members, and parents learn together.

Author

• Danielle R. Lansing, Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute