Twenty-sixth International Conference on Learning

Abstract

This session will begin with an overview of the evidence-based Abecedarian Approach to enriched early learning, which has been extensively evaluated. The focus will be on the implementation of this approach in a largely Indigenous, inner-city social housing complex in Winnipeg, Canada. An overview of the key program components will be provided, including the inclusion of Indigenous culture. The very positive impact on the children’s development will be covered, but importantly for the conference special focus, we will highlight the inter-generational impact the program has had on parents: their understanding and belief in their capacity to play a key role in their child’s learning; their changing vision of the future; and their emerging ability to imagine and pursue their own educational and employment goals. Short video clips will illustrate Abecedarian principles and provide firsthand accounts from parents. The discussion will focus on the many ways in which enriched care-giving can instigate social change for young children, their families, and communities. Practice and policy implications will be discussed, as well as a quick overview of Abecedarian activities that have grown from this initial project. If time allows a quick overview of global Abecedarian activity will be provided.