Maajitaag Minoayaawin
(Maji- tog Mino-ayaa-win)
“A Start of a Healthy Life”
Traditionally, pregnancy is a sacred state of being.
Keeping Ikwe (woman) and Abinoojiiyenhs (baby) safe and healthy has always been an honorable and expected way of life for Anishinaabe. When a woman knew she was pregnant, the life inside became her first thought. She was very aware of the need to (zaagichigaazowin) “love and treasure them” right from the start.
Maajitaag Minoayaawin is designed to complement, not replace prenatal, postpartum and pediatric medical care. The Tribal Home Visiting Program is available to ALL expectant families or families with children under five years old, who receive care at the Lac Vieux Desert Health Center.
In addition to providing support and education during pregnancy, there is also a focus on helping women become and stay healthy before and between pregnancies. We affirm the sacred role of women in the community as givers of life, and promote understanding of the importance of family well-being and the health of women, fathers and Abinojiinh (child)
throughout the lifespan.
Seven Anishinaabe Teachings:
NIBWAAKAAWIN – WISDOM
ZAAGI’IDIWIN – LOVE
MANAADJITOOWIN – RESPECT
ZOOGIDE’EWIN – COURAGE
GWAYAKWAADIZIWIN – HONESTY
DABASENIMOWIN – HUMILITY
DEBWEWIN – TRUTH
What Do We Have to Offer?
- Home or office visits by a Maternal/Child Health Nurse and Family Health Educator for prenatal mothers, infants and children until their 5th birthday as well as their family and guardians
- Support and education based on the needs of the family, including parenting information and tips using the Family Spirit Curriculum and seven traditional Anishinaabe teachings
- Services and support for women with high-risk pregnancies
- Referral, follow-up and after-care services for a variety of family needs
- Breastfeeding support and education from a Certified Lactation Specialist. Education on infant feeding and child nutrition
- Car Seat education and installation assistance with Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician
- Depression screenings/referrals
- Coordination of transportation to medical appointments
- Support for pregnant and parenting teens and their families
- Assistance with finding resources for unmet basic needs
- Ages and Stages evaluations along with referrals as appropriate