Photo: MN-S

To help Metis children explore their traditions, language, and culture, a 90-space Metis Nation-Saskatchewan early learning and childcare centre is being built on Saskatoon’s Kensington Boulevard.

Sherry McLennan, Regional Director of MN-S, says the one-of-a-kind facility will offer teachings in three Indigenous languages: Dene, Michif, and Cree.

“The one (centre) is not only one that is just for daycare. This is one specifically to learn language and culture and values and traditions. It’s very special,” McLennan admitted.

Not only will children be encouraged to learn their native languages, but parents will also be encouraged to begin using the language in the family home.

Elders will also provide the children with cultural teachings.

“They’ll be teaching the Metis teachings for sure, and they also have to incorporate the Cree and the seven teachings which are respect, courage and wisdom to name a few.”

To further benefit Indigenous groups, the architecture for the project is a 100% Métis-owned and operated firm out of Northern Saskatchewan called SOLO. The general contractor, PCL, was also awarded the contract on the criteria of providing a Métis procurement strategy.

Early learning and childcare workers are encouraged to apply to fill one of 29 full-time and 4 part-time positions that will be created with the opening of the facility, which is slated for the fall of 2025.

“The children are our future. The generations down the line to come…they can keep our culture going.”