Supporting Aboriginal Families of Young Children with Disabilities

RESPECT, DIGNITY, HEALING AND CARE – Working with Aboriginal Families with Children with Special Needs through Truth and Reconciliation.

This UBC 2017 Summer Institute will bring together ECED students, ECE & IDSC professionals, and others interested in early childhood and infant development, to explore the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Recommendations as Canada begins to celebrate 150 Years.

This institute will have Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal professionals come together, discuss their work in relation to Aboriginal families, and how the TRC recommendations will enrich work practices and policies. There will be a particular focus on Aboriginal children with special needs and Aboriginal children in the child welfare system.

This institute will include:

• Talking circle and smudging or cedar brushing ceremony with an Elder.
• Canadian History from an Aboriginal perspective, Canada’s 150 years and the TRC
• Metis perspective and programs that serve Metis children and families
• Understanding Trauma and Intergenerational Trauma
• Jordan’s Principle
• Information from the First Nations Health Authority
• Panel of parents of children with special needs
• Panel of professionals who work with children with special needs
• Research happening in First Nations communities to enrich resources
• Working with EIT and medical professionals, increasing our own knowledge and connections for families
• Working with special needs children in care
• Closing Ceremony