Abstract
This chapter presents the experiences of one community-based agency, Te Aroha Noa, which has developed effective strategies for enhancing family and community well-being. The agency’s name is derived from te reo Māori (the indigenous language of New Zealand) and embraces the idea of unconditional love and care. Te Aroha Noa provides early childhood services alongside a range of other services and has developed innovative approaches for nurturing the strengths of families. It has also contributed to building the capacity of the community within which it is situated. For over two decades, the agency has worked intentionally to understand the diverse needs of the families that come to Te Aroha Noa and has developed creative strategies for responding to these needs. Strengths-based and community-development perspectives inform the work and focus attention upon positive change strategies that enhance family and child well-being. This chapter presents the agency’s experiences in developing an approach to practice that spans early childhood, family and community work, and adult education. It explores the key concepts that are central to this practice. The chapter draws on examples from the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) center, which is located on the main site of the agency, and the parenting support and education programs provided to families that are delivered on-site and in-home.
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Notes
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© 2012 Judith Duncan and Sarah Te One
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Munford, R., Sanders, J., Maden, B. (2012). Building Strengths in Families and Communities. In: Duncan, J., One, S.T. (eds) Comparative Early Childhood Education Services. Critical Cultural Studies of Childhood. Palgrave Macmillan, New York. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137016782_4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137016782_4
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