Indigenous Programs

Aboriginal Head Start Preschool

“Our child, our future”

Aboriginal Head Start offers two programs a day from Monday to Thursday at 9 am – 11:15 am or 12:45 pm – 3:30 pm. This is a licensed preschool that is for children ages 3 to 5 years (must be 3 by December 31st).

This program focuses on Aboriginal Culture, has qualified Early Childhood Educators and provides transportation and meals. The registration is always open and has no charge.

The overall goal of the Comox Valley Aboriginal Head Start program is to foster the early childhood development of Aboriginal children in conjunction with plans and methods designed by Aboriginal people for Aboriginal people.

Aboriginal Speech And Language Program

This program is for families and children with Indigenous ancestry from 0-7 years of age. This free, flexible and voluntary program is available Monday through Friday from 8:30am-4:30pm.

This program consists of a registered Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and certified Speech-Language Assistant (SLPA) that can support families, caregivers and community professionals in learning ways to support children in the following areas:

• play and social communication development

• language understanding and expression

• speaking clearly and smoothly

• early literacy skills

• feeding and swallowing skills

This program aims to support families and children with communication needs in a culturally respectful and inclusive way. Visits can happen at the family home, UIWONA office, childcare setting, and/or a safe community space (e.g., local playground).

Family Circle

Family Circle is presented weekly on Fridays from 10:00am - 12:00pm and incorporates local Aboriginal culture. Interactive programming includes drumming, singing story-telling, and traditional teachings.

Friday's Child "Playing in the Light"

The program supports parents and families who face challenges with daily tasks as a result of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and other cognitive or behavioural difficulties. The program provides a safe environment for Aboriginal children and their families who face extraordinary challenges in ordinary situations.

Families participate in confidential talking circles and find support with our highly-trained staff and a supportive community. Transportation and a healthy lunch is provided. The program is free.

Hummingbirds Play Group

Hummingbirds operates Monday and Friday mornings 10:00am - 12:00pm and provides a healthy breakfast and culturally-based programming for parents and children age 0 to 6. It is a great opportunity to enjoy child-centered play through planned activities and free play with cultural components. Parents can also find out more about parenting and family supports in the Comox Valley.

Métis Family Connections - Early Years

Métis Family Connections – Early Years was developed by Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) for families with Métis children birth to 8 years. Métis Family Connections – Early Years is focused on helping families build a network of support that provides children with opportunities for early learning and childhood development. Métis Family Connections Navigators assist families to access programs and services that are available in their region and connect them to community and culture.

WHY SHOULD YOU ENROL YOUR CHILD IN MÉTIS FAMILY CONNECTIONS – EARLY YEARS?

• • To learn more about Métis identity and the Métis Nation.
  • To be up to date on what early years services are available in your community and how to access them.
  • To be connected to other Métis families.
  • To have support for your child through each stage of their development.
  • Opportunities to attend Métis Family Gathering Events with your children.
  • To receive Métis cultural resources.

The Early Years Aboriginal Program 

The Early Years Aboriginal Program provides support and networking for families. The program is designed to fill a gap for families to provide support and socialization, while incorporating traditional teachings and current parenting techniques. 

Held in a classroom at Courtenay Elementary, the program is for children 0-4+ years of age and their parents and offers transportation assistance. A healthy snack is included. Registration is ongoing and the program is free. 

The program features child-focused family projects such as elders and guests, circle time (Aboriginal drumming, singing and dancing), walking field trips, group presentations, and cultural gatherings. 

Sasamans (Our Children) Society

The Sasamans Society is dedicated to strengthening children of indigenous heritage, and their families, in a community driven and culturally appropriate manner.

The Aboriginal Parenting Support Worker is available to assist families going through the MCFD involvement process, serving as a liaison between parents and social works. The Support Worker is also available to offer general preventative parenting skills and support to any family raising a child of indigenous heritage.

Referral process may be through MCFD community professionals, service providers, or self-referral.

Wachiay Friendship Centre

Waciahy are a federally registered charity and provincially registered non-profit Society. The mandate is to provide services to those in need. Poverty is not specific to one ethnicity, all peoples are welcome in friendship. Near the heart of downtown Courtenay, Wachiay delivers more than 40 programs and services in their 20,000 square foot facility. These programs and services help those experiencing homelessness, are unemployed or under-employed. Some of these programs include:

• Early Childhood Development

• Youth Volunteering Program

• Homeless Outreach/Interventions Programs

• Family Law Advocacy

• Elders and Families

…and many more. Visit the “Learn More” button below to visit their website!