by Dr Kat Wieczorek-Ghisso
“In a career spanning more than 20 years, I have always taken much interest in engaging early childhood educators to embrace complex issues in the sector, one of which includes the topic of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Despite the fact that the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) considers embracing Indigenous perspectives in early childhood programs as paramount, I find it interesting that we have to navigate tense waters when broaching the subject. Identified as a key initiative in the OECD Thematic Review (2009), many services appear to struggle with direction in this area. Essentially, it comes down to a review of attitudes and an appreciation that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures hold a unique place in Australian history.”