Minneapolis Nature Preschool Dakota Immersion Camp Project
1. Offer as many children as possible the chance to be immersed in the Dakota Language. This includes prioritizing children of Dakota heritage, children with Dakota language connections, and children with other tribal affiliations. Ensure families feels safe, welcome, and included in the language learning process and in the shaping of future programming. 2. Build a network of Dakota Language educators through collaborative teaching, including language experts, elders, and early childhood teachers. 3. Develop a sustainable model for year round programming for early childhood Dakota Language immersion, including consideration of adding early years programs (9 months-3 years.)
Success will be providing immersion in Dakota language while also providing a safe, welcome, challenging environment un which all children can grow and learn. Children will have opportunities to share their learning with their families, creating a ripple effect in language usage as well as nature and cultural connection. Children will use Dakota language daily, be receptive to instruction in Dakota language, and grow in their curiosity to learn more of the Dakota language. Staff will grow in their ability to teach Dakota language to young children while gaining a deeper understanding of Dakota language and Culture through mentorship by community experts.