Educators Supporting Indigenous Families: Trust

Practical strategies for building trust with Indigenous families and fostering culturally safe early learning environments.


2021

Why it sparks inspiration

How can educators foster trust with Indigenous families in early learning environments? This brief report highlights the important role of trust in building strong, supportive relationships between educators and Indigenous families. By reading this report, you will learn about key dispositions like compassion, reliability, and honesty, as well as strategies for engaging families and creating trusting, culturally safe spaces. In addition, there are four more resources under this theme, covering important topics such as culture, relationships, and accessing child care. By using the strategies in this report, you can strengthen relationships with families and support the emotional health and sense of belonging for children in your care!


"Trust in an early learning environment is built over time through consistent communication and is revealed when educators take a genuine interest in a child’s wellbeing and development."


How it can inspire your practice

  • Educators can use the strategies in the report to develop daily conversations with families, building trust and showing a genuine interest in each child's development and well-being.
  • Program leaders can create welcoming spaces by including diverse cultural practices and engaging Elders or Knowledge Keepers to build trust with Indigenous families.

Click here to learn more about the Edmonton Council for Early Learning and Care.


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