Miyo pimatisiwin opikinawasowin: Living the good life in child rearing ways

Abstract

Opikinawasowin is the Cree word for the lifelong process of growing children. Indigenous child rearing practices adopt a holistic approach while being inclusive of the family unit and the community. The tipi is the conceptual framework for this qualitative Indigenous research study. I use the tipi because each pole represents a specific child rearing teaching corresponding to one of four inter-related life stages: child, adolescent, adult and Elder. All teachings related to the tipi help us understand the spiritual aspect of miyo pimatisiwin opikinawasowin. To be eligible for the Tipi Teachings online study, Indigenous participants are over the age of consent and live on Turtle Island. Thesis findings provide a Turtle Island perspective on Indigenous child rearing ways, teachings, philosophies, and practices related to the tipi. Given that Indigenous children are disproportionately overrepresented in the Child Welfare system, this study is imperative for moving forward in times of reconciliation for Indigenous children, families, communities and Nations across Turtle Island. Thus, this research will positively impact families, including my own, and the next seven generations.