All Head Start programs, including American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) programs, are required to deliver developmentally, culturally, and linguistically appropriate learning experiences. These videos show cultural practices in tribal early learning settings that support children's development in all Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) domains. Use Making It Work to help plan cultural learning experiences. Learn how to connect your traditional cultural skills, values, beliefs, and lifeways to your program's school readiness goals.
Singing and Drumming
Singing and Drumming
CLE in Tribal Early Learning Settings: Sing and Drum
Instructor: [Speaking in native language] Really fast.
Really fast on the [Speaking in native language] okay?
[Rapid drumming and singing in native language]
[Singing, drumming continues]
[Singing, drumming continues]
[Singing, drumming continues]
[Drumming slows]
[Singing, drumming continues]
[Singing, drumming continues] [Singing, drumming continues]
[Drumming stops]
Group: [Singing in native language]
Instructor: Louder!
Group: [Continues singing]
Instructor: Great job. Great job.
CloseWatch children from the Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe Early Head Start Program in Kingston, WA experience the S'Klallum culture by singing in the tribal language and drumming. This activity builds intergenerational and community connectedness and promotes children's well-being. By taking part in this cultural tradition, children are building positive self-identities and cultural knowledge. As they come together with older Head Start children in a group, they are also:
- Connecting with other children and adults (Social and Emotional Development)
- Learning the tribal language as they sing (Language and Communication)
- Using their hands to hit the drum (Perceptual, Motor, and Physical Development)
- Recognizing the difference between hitting the drum soft and hard (Cognition)
- Showing interest as they imitate the adult (Approaches to Learning)
Select the link to learn more about the program: https://www.pgst.nsn.us/tribal-programs/tribal-services/early-childhood-education/about-us
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Resource Type: Article
National Centers: Early Childhood Development, Teaching and Learning
Last Updated: February 6, 2023