Parenting and early childhood development

The Martu children (Tjitji) of Wiluna grow up in a warm and permissive environment with strong connections to the traditions and culture of their family (Walta).

The children speak Mandjildjara and/or another Martu dialect as their 1st language, which includes the active use of sign language. English is their 2nd or 3rd language, learnt primarily to communicate with non-Martu.

Nggangganawili Aboriginal Health Service and local Walta worked together in 2003-5 to identify a range of issues around preparing Tjitji schooling. We now have a major program in place to work with the Martu to grow up strong Tjitji and to maintain traditional ways whilst assisting Tjitji to move from Walta to school.

Through our Parenting and early childhood development program and Childcare Centre Nggangganawili Aboriginal Health Service provides a range of services and activities to support Walta in Wiluna. These include:

• supported playgroup sessions;
• education for families in healthy eating, good hygiene, safety in the home, protective behaviours;
• elders and little kid’s bush picnics;
• access to baby bathing and changing facilities;
• access to washing machine/dryer for children’s clothes;
• access to second hand children’s clothes;
• information on parenting strategies and social support services; and
• young women’s social support group.

Wiluna Tjitji are given a great deal of freedom and personal autonomy that is a central part of Martu Tjukurrpa. Very early in their lives are able to decide when to eat and sleep and later, whether they go to school. Our programs are focussed on providing a smooth and supportive and transition for the Tjitji into schooling.