Indigenous Elders enrich learning at CUPS

“Hi Wade!”

That is the only warning Wade Maude gets before a large group of kindergarten-aged children gives him a massive group hug when he enters their classroom.

It’s an experience that brings a smile to the face of the Indigenous Programming Coordinator for CUPS every time he takes part in Indigenous teachings day at the CUPS Child Development Centre.

It’s also why Tuesday and Wednesday are his favourite days of the week.

Elders Randy Bottle and Ruby Eaglechild from the Blood Reserve also pay regular visits to our classrooms.

In Ruby’s case, the children call her Na’a, which is Blackfoot for Mother.

During their time together they get to share stories, teach them about smudging, and the four directions on the medicine wheel, among other traditions. It has been a powerful experience for them to come in and make an impact on these young people as it gives them a proper perspective on Indigenous people are and their traditions.

“It may seem small, but it’s really a big thing. When they look back at pre-school and kindergarten, they’ll remember the person who came in and played drums, sang songs and told stories.” 

CUPS Child Development Centre’s Indigenous teaching day is just one touch-point where children, clients, and staff can learn about Indigenous people and their way of life.

Hungry to learn

Wade has only been on staff at CUPS for five months. But in that short time, he says he’s been impressed with the enthusiasm and dedication to helping bring to life the learning experiences he so openly shares.

He says the day he first walked through the doors, the agency and staff immediately wanted a more profound connection, understanding, and knowledge of how their Indigenous clients got to where they are, whether through residential schools or intergenerational trauma.

In addition to the work happening with our littlest clients in the classroom, CUPS and Wade have implemented a new training program for staff called Cultivating Compassion.

It consists of four modules with the goal of giving everyone a deeper understanding and connection with Indigenous ways.

Bringing Indigenous teachings through people like Wade, Ruby, and Randy into the classroom for both kids and staff continues to enrich the cultural experience for everyone at CUPS.