Notes

The spiritual dimension deals with the child's connection to their inner self and all that is. When children are born, their spirits are pure, clean and complete; it is at this time they are most connected to the spirit world. Wellness factors include praying, learning or hearing traditional songs, the sound of the drum, participating in cultural ceremonies, knowing their language and understanding their connection and relationship to self, family, nation, land, animals and the spirit world.

Emotional

The emotional dimension deals with having a secure attachment, self-confidence and emotional stability. Encouraging emotional development in Indigenous children helps them define their sense of purpose and the feeling of being grounded in their culture. They develop a sense of who they are and they understand that they matter.

Wellness factors include children feeling supported and encouraged to feel their emotions, involvement in traditional ceremonies, teachings, and use of traditional medicines. Children also need to develop a strong sense of belonging and must have opportunities to feel their connections to family, clan, nation and creation.

Indigenous child wellness results from the balance of the Physical, Mental, Emotional and Spiritual dimensions of the individual, family and community.

There are many underlying factors that can contribute to imbalance, and when one or more areas are out of balance a child's health can be severely affected.