The Role of Tribal Child Care Programs in Serving Children Birth to Five
This study is designed to describe the role that American Indian directors play in the implementation of child care programs in their tribal communities. The study considers issues of local transmission of culture, preservation of tribal language and the role of quality strategies in program implementation. The information derived from the study will be useful in various ways. First, the findings will uncover the current state of cultural education and continuity efforts in tribal child care and what factors may be supports or obstacles for the directors. Second, they will reveal the tribally-specific ways in which quality improvement is being interpreted and implemented in different sites. Third, they will suggest whether tribal affiliation (enrollment) may be a factor in directors' perceptions about their achievements, obstacles, and challenges. Fourth, the findings will highlight directors' strategies for developing strong linkages for collaboration and exchange with one another. Fifth, they will reveal the kinds of knowledge and expertise that come with greater experience.
As tribal groups continue in their efforts to preserve and promote the continuation of cultural integrity, it is helpful to know how programs have dealt with these issues. Findings from the study will support and strengthen the continuing collaborative activities between states and tribes to continue to define and implement best practices in child care programs serving American Indian children. Findings from this study will also support linkages between the Child Care Bureau regional offices and program specialists and tribal child care programs regarding best practices in implementing culturally appropriate care. Additionally, the findings will provide social policy makers with information about low-cost strategies for utilizing the unique cultures and strengths of American Indian communities to support quality implementation and advance the optimal development of American Indian children enrolled in tribal child care programs across the country.
For additional information on this investigation, please contact:
Project Director: Linda Mayo Willis
