(Honolulu)
-- A collaboration of Native Hawaiian early childhood agencies,
including Alu Like, INPEACE, Keiki O Ka Aina Family Learning Centers, Na
Kamalei, Partners in Development Foundation and Punana Leo held a family
advocacy day in the State Capitol Rotunda with a family child interaction
session.
The morning highlighted stronger families, and showed the
importance of Family Child Interaction Learning (FCIL) and the communities
these programs reside in. The demonstration featured a mock preschool classroom
complete with learning centers, music and activities for 400 keiki, caregivers
and families.
Learning centers for participants included math, science, reading,
art, dramatic play, motor development, language development, and music. Keiki and families were joined by state
legislators.
FCIL programs provide direct preschool services to families on an
average of 3 hours per day, 3 days a week. Punana Leo provides year round,
daily services. These programs prepare children for school success and support
families by equipping parents and caregivers with the knowledge they need to ensure
school readiness. The activities and experiences parents and children have in
the program are transferred and practiced at home. These programs believe that
the family involvement process begins before a child is born and support the
family in their role as the child's first teacher.
The event was made possible by the collaboration of
the participating agencies, the 'Eleu Consortium and funding by INPEACE
(Institute for Native Pacific Education and Culture) and the Office of Hawaiian
Affairs.
