ECMS has developed an exciting pilot playgroup program in partnership with The Gathering Place Medical Aboriginal Corporation in Melbourne’s west.
The program integrates young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents and children into their local community by offering a safe environment for families to connect, have a yarn and share stories. It also provides a forum for Aboriginal knowledge and culture to be shared with parents and their children.
The playgroup, which is co-facilitated by Chloe Rhine from The Gathering Place and ECMS educator Leonie Hede, has now been running for a term. And thanks to Chloe and Leonie’s tireless commitment, energy and passion, families have already taken part in the following valuable activities:
- Learning about positive parenting and how to identify family violence from Women Health West.
- Discussions on Mabo Day during Reconciliation Week, including its implications for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and understanding both flags.
- NAIDOC Week celebrations such as painting flags, damper making, a smoking ceremony and yarning circles.
ECMS and The Gathering Place are thrilled with the playgroup’s progress so far. In the future, it's hoped the group will reach more young Indigenous parents, including young fathers.
“We’d also like to see an increase in general play area resources and activities and access to funding to enable excursions and incursions for both parents and children,” says Chloe.
“We also hope to achieve a higher profile locally to ensure that when events occur, the local Aboriginal organisations are advised, included and consulted.”
The group’s ultimate goal is to support Indigenous children and families to stand up and be proud of their heritage and knowledgeable enough to share their culture with their peers. Deadly!!
The Gathering Place Medical Aboriginal Corporation's vision
"To bring together our people at the gathering place that celebrates our community's culture and identity, enhancing the self-determination and well-being of our people. It will provide a healthy and proud "Indigenous" community through motivation, education and cultural acknowledgment, while giving the Western Suburbs Indigenous people a sense of belonging and ownership."
Learn more about The Gathering Place Medical Aboriginal Corporation.