New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, Friday, September 6,...
Nurturing Strong African Nova Scotian Families
Nurturing Strong African Nova Scotian Families is a pilot program introduced by the provincial government in efforts to help preserve African Nova Scotian culture, and support strong African Nova Scotian (ANS) families. Approximately 12 people from African Nova Scotian communities were trained to act as facilitators for programs across Nova Scotia. The program will be offered to African Nova Scotian parents in Pictou County beginning in March 2017.
There has been an important piece missing in parenting support in Pictou County; cultural relevancy. The Nurturing Strong African Nova Scotian Families program was developed as a response to the lack of culturally specific programs that address the realities of African Nova Scotian parents and children. The program aims to enhance parenting support for African Nova Scotian families by building Afrocentric knowledge and values into this program.
The program is grounded in the belief that family and community share in the responsibility of protecting and caring for our children. A belief that is best represented in the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” The program also focuses on cultural pride reinforcement which includes teaching children how to feel good about themselves and their cultural heritage.
Facilitators Jasmine Trott and Katie Williams
One of the most beneficial parts of the program is interaction with other African Nova Scotian parents. The opportunity to discuss important topics related to parenting from a cultural perspective is unique, and provides a space for many conversations that would not likely take place otherwise. Participants in the program will be able to share information, get advice, and exchange stories with other ANS parents, and have the ability to work together to support each other in raising their children.
The program will begin with a program overview and information session on March 9th, 2017 at Kids First, 110 Provost St., New Glasgow. For more information about the Nurturing Strong African Nova Scotian Families program, or to attend the information session contact facilitator.nsansf@gmail.com.