qalabka loo shaqeeyaha

In the latest episode of Little Moments Count Radio Podcast on Native Roots Radio, we hear from educators Vanessa Goodthunder and Sandy Jackson. Vanessa Goodthunder created a cultural sanctuary with Lower Sioux Early Head Start, integrating the Dakota language into early childhood education to foster belonging and connection. She shares her journey, highlighting how language embodies cultural values and geography. Sandy Jackson, a former Dakota language immersion student, discusses how cultural activities influenced her teaching philosophy and passion for preserving Dakota culture. Together, they emphasize the importance of early education in revitalizing the Dakota language and culture, showing how introducing language at a young age strengthens cultural identity and community bonds. Their work celebrates Native resilience and progress in language preservation, urging families to engage in this cultural journey and harness the transformative power of language learning. This episode was recorded on December 18th, 2024 on the live radio program Native Roots Radio-I’m Awake, broadcast on various radio station in the Twin Cities, Chicago and Wisconsin.  To hear more interviews with early childhood experts on how to support the important brain development that takes place in the first 1000 days of life–just through little moments every day.

In the latest episode of Little Moments Count Radio Podcast on Native Roots Radio, guest we hear from Barb Fabre, CEO of Indigenous Visioning and a member of the White Earth Ojibwe Nation, where she shares insights on early childhood development from an Indigenous perspective. A lifelong child advocate, Barb highlights the importance of understanding historical trauma and brain development in nurturing young minds, especially in Indigenous communities. She stresses the need for culturally informed child care environments and resources that honor Indigenous heritage, ensuring that early interactions foster a strong sense of self and community. In our conversation, Barb shares her journey and the impact of advocacy in addressing the unique needs of Indigenous children and families. Through her work with Indigenous Visioning and All Nations Rise, she demonstrates how preserving cultural identity helps future generations thrive. Her commitment to building brighter futures by honoring the past underscores the connection between Native issues and broader human concerns. Tune in for a dialogue that emphasizes the importance of storytelling in shaping our shared future. This episode was recorded on November 20th, 2024 on the live radio program Native Roots Radio-I’m Awake, broadcast on various radio station in the Twin Cities, Chicago and Wisconsin.  To hear more interviews with early childhood experts on how to support the important brain development that takes place in the first 1000 days of life–just through little moments every day.

In the latest episode of Little Moments Count Radio Podcast on Native Roots Radio, guest Fawn YoungBear Tibbetts, executive director of Wicoie Nandagikendan, discusses Minneapolis's first Indigenous urban preschool immersion program. The program not only teaches Dakota and Ojibwe languages but also aims to nurture future leaders grounded in their cultural heritage. Children aged toddlers to five engage in a dual-language environment that promotes cultural understanding, with traditional practices like Indigenous food preparation integrated into daily learning. The podcast also addresses the vital connection between nutrition and brain development, particularly in communities facing poverty and health issues. Fawn shares her efforts to combat food deserts in South Minneapolis by introducing innovative solutions such as native HelloFresh boxes, empowering families to make healthier food choices. The episode highlights the importance of culture and nutrition in fostering resilient communities and a promising future for the next generation. This episode was recorded on October 16th, 2024

Join us as we discuss the Dakota Language Nest, an inspiring immersion daycare program at the University of Minnesota. We are joined by Wóokiye wiŋ, lead teacher, and the passionate Šišókadut, linguistic director at Dakota IápiOkhódakičhiye. We explore how this initiative is reviving the Dakota language for children. Through full-day immersion, these young learners engage in cultural traditions like singing and smudging, building a foundation that reconnects them to their roots while countering the historical impacts of the boarding school era. Discover how art and storytelling, alongside scholarships and parental resources, play a vital role in nurturing a new generation of Dakota speakers. This episode reveals how education and community efforts intertwine to ensure the Dakota language and culture flourish for years to come... This episode was recorded on September 18, 2024

How do you empower a community to create lasting change from within? In our latest episode, we're joined by Beth Ann Dodds, Program Manager at All Nations Rise, and Ashley Bunker, a 2023 graduate of the Indigenous Parent Leadership Initiative (IPLI). Beth informs us how IPLI, a 23-week program, integrates child development, leadership, democracy skills, and Ojibwe culture to uplift Indigenous parents and caregivers. Ashley shares her compelling journey, emphasizing how IPLI has emboldened her to advocate for changes in her family and the broader White Earth Tribal Community. This episode was recorded on July 17, 2024.

On this episode of Little Moments Count Radio Podcast, we talk with Lucy Arias, an Early Language and Literacy Specialist. Lucy shares insights from her extensive experience, discussing effective strategies for parents and caregivers to support language acquisition through everyday activities such as talking, reading, singing, and playing. We also explore the cultural significance of early learning practices within Native communities and the long-term impact on a child's educational trajectory. Gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between culture, early childhood education, and how intentional, small moments can contribute to building stronger, more resilient communities. This episode was recorded on August 21st, 2024.