Aboriginal Wayapa Babytime and Storytime sessions are available at Newcastle Libraries, focusing on introducing families to Indigenous perspectives on early learning.
In partnership with Newcastle Libraries and Rainbow Crow Cultural Collective, popular Storytime and Babytime sessions will now be transformed into an Aboriginal-led early literacy program.
The owner of Rainbow Crow Cultural Collective and Qualified Aboriginal Health Practitioner, Sarah Corrigan, is delivering the free program which is currently in its trial phase at the City Library.
“Wayapa is an accredited modality and has mindfulness benefits, physical benefits, and is a beautiful way to share cultural connections, and our stories,” Corrigan said.
“It connects everyone, regardless of background or age, to Indigenous Australians’ deep, spiritual connection to Country.
“Wayapa offers a way for parents, aunts, uncles, siblings, grandies, and carers to use the natural environment as a starting point for sensory play.”
Wayapa is based on ancient Indigenous knowledge about living in harmony with the environment and connection to culture.
Wayapa Babytime enables carers to slow down and connect with themselves, their baby, and the environment.
Wayapa Storytime introduces children to Aboriginal based earth mindfulness, sustainability, and community through storytelling and movement.
“As Aboriginal people, we have had thousands of years of connection to Country—so it’s about how we have kept that connection so strong and how everyone can help make it even stronger,” Corrigan said.
“I also think that it’s essential from a young age to understand First Nation Australians’ history, beliefs and culture; I think the more we can do that, the better.
“I wasn’t taught my history in school, so it’s beautiful to see it has shifted a lot.
“It’s amazing to be able to share this with these little people—early learning is a fun and beautiful space to show the strengths of our people through dance, song, connection to Country, and sustainability.”
Councillor Carol Duncan said the program was an essential addition to the Libraries’ Early literacy programming.
“This program will help embed Aboriginal perspectives into our early literacy programs, providing an opportunity for Indigenous and non-Indigenous families to experience cultural connections and early learning experiences in a welcoming and inclusive space,” Cr Duncan said
A four-week Wayapa Babytime and Storytime term will begin at Wallsend Library from May 4, with bookings opening in early April.
Hayley McMahon