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. Since 2021, 57 children have attended, and 27 participants yarned about their experience with the program. These yarns revealed the importance of building trust, being Aboriginal led, and holistic engagement in Aboriginal culture as essential in co-designing culturally safe ECE programs. This program serves as a foundation for developing culturally appropriate ECE programs for Aboriginal children and families to ensure Aboriginal kids grow up strong in their culture and identity.