University of Minnesota Dakota Language Nest
Our primary objectives during this project start are to plan and create a comprehensive curriculum based on the knowledge of Dakota elders and community members, early childhood educators, and families. This will begin by connecting with and visiting language nests (either in person or virtually) to build a program plan. The program plan will include the curriculum for young children, college students, and families. It will also include building a foundational knowledge base around Dakota culture and language for the Child Development Laboratory School staff.
Expected outcomes for this project include the collaborative development of culturally responsive and developmentally appropriate Dakota language early childhood curriculum for young children in Minnesota as well as framework for an early childhood education curriculum for University students.