\nNewcastle Libraries collaborated with Rainbow Crow Cultural Collective on an innovative program that transforms its popular Storytime and Babytime sessions into an Aboriginal-led early literacy program.
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![\"(Back)](\"https:\/\/www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au\/Newcastle\/media\/Images\/News\/2%20Media%20Release%20images\/Wayapa-program-web.jpg\" "\\"(Back)")
\nThe free Wayapa Babytime and Storytime programs are being delivered by qualified Aboriginal Health Practitioner and Cultural Consultant Sarah Corrigan, with around 20 families taking part in the booked-out trial running at the City Library during March. A four-week term will begin at Wallsend Library from 4 May, with bookings opening in early April.
\nNewcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes welcomed the new addition to the Libraries\u2019 stimulating suite of Early Literacy programs
\n\u201cCity of Newcastle is committed to supporting initiatives that encourage social inclusion and community connections,\u201d she said.
\n\u201cThe Wayapa programs are open to all families, fostering knowledge sharing and community building.\u201d
\nCouncillor Carol Duncan said the program was an important addition to the Libraries\u2019 programming.
\n\u201cThis program will help embed Aboriginal perspectives into our early literacy programs, providing an opportunity for Indigenous and non-Indigenous families to experience cultural connections and early learning experiences in a welcoming and inclusive space,\u201d Cr Duncan said.
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![\"Families](\"https:\/\/www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au\/Newcastle\/media\/Images\/News\/2%20Media%20Release%20images\/Wayapa-1-web.jpg\" "\\"Families")
\nWayapa is an earth, mind, body, spirit practice that promotes wellbeing. It is based on ancient Indigenous knowledge about living in harmony with the environment and connection with the world\u2019s oldest living continual culture.
\nWayapa Babytime provides an opportunity for carers to slow down and connect inwards with themselves, their baby and the environment, while Wayapa Storytime uses storytelling, movement and nature-based craft to introduce children to Aboriginal-based earth mindfulness, promoting sustainability, connection and community.
\nMs Corrigan said the program introduced parents to Aboriginal ways of learning, showing them how they can use easily accessible household and natural resources to stimulate their child\u2019s development.
\n\u201cWayapa connects everyone, regardless of background or age, to Indigenous Australians’ deep, spiritual connection to Country,\u201d she said.
\n\u201cFor children the natural environment is the best playground and for parents it\u2019s the cheapest. Wayapa offers a way for parents, aunts, uncles, siblings, grandies and carers to use the natural environment as a starting point for sensory play.
\n\u201cThe collaboration with Newcastle Libraries has been a wonderful opportunity share and show the strength and value of Aboriginal culture with everyone.
\n\u201cIt makes me happy that the families who come along are growing up bubs and little ones who will have a greater respect and understanding of First Nation Australians\u2019 beliefs and culture. The future generations will hopefully be able to walk together to care for Country in partnership.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"