Craft-based activities in early childhood Gamilaraay language reclamation

Abstract The Gamilaraay language, an Aboriginal Australian language in northern inland New South Wales and nearby Queensland, has faced significant decline as a result of colonisation. To reclaim the language and preserve Gamilaraay cultural heritage, creative and engaging teaching methods are essential. The Winanga-li Language Program uses a theme-based curriculum design which encourages the repetition of target language through storytelling, songs, games, artwork and crafts. This paper explores the use of art and crafts in Gamilaraay early childhood language learning as a multidimensional approach to language and culture. To our knowledge, the topic of craft-based learning activities has not been previously explored in depth in a language reclamation context, specifically in preschool learning. We report on our reflective practice with craft materials as part of one of our program themes around Gunagala (‘sky’), based on significant Gamilaraay cultural knowledge.