Northumberland County is celebrating the opening of a new space dedicated to Indigenous early years learning, cultural connection and family engagement.
Community members, families, partners and staff gathered June 19 at the Cobourg EarlyON Child and Family Centre to mark the opening of the Inaate’abiwin Playroom, a welcoming space created to support Indigenous children and families.
The celebration, held in recognition of National Indigenous Peoples Day, included songs, drumming, cultural teachings and remarks from community partners. Guests also learned about the meaning behind the name Inaate’abiwin from Tim Smoke, Cultural Resource Advisor with Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child and Family Services and a member of Alderville First Nation.
The playroom was created through a partnership between Northumberland County’s Early Years Services division and Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child and Family Services.
Northumberland County Warden Bob Crate said the opening reflects an ongoing commitment to building meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations.
The county says the space will provide culturally grounded programming and opportunities for children and families to learn, play and connect.
Amber Crowe, Executive Director of Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child and Family Services, said the playroom was created with Indigenous children and families at its heart and is intended to provide a place where families can explore, connect and grow together.
Elder and Knowledge Keeper Mary Ann Spencer also shared songs and teachings during the celebration.
County officials say the Inaate’abiwin Playroom will support ongoing Indigenous Early Years programming while serving as a gathering space where children can explore, families can build relationships and community connections can continue to grow.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
