Cobourg, ON – June 24, 2026 – Community members, families, partners, and staff gathered on Friday, June 19, at the Cobourg EarlyON Child and Family Centre to celebrate the grand opening of the Inaate’abiwin (In-awe-tay-awe-buh-win) Playroom, a welcoming space designed to support Indigenous early years learning, cultural connection, and family engagement.
The celebration, held in recognition of National Indigenous Peoples Day, featured songs, drumming, cultural teachings, and remarks from community partners. Guests also learned about the meaning behind the name Inaate’abiwin from Tim Smoke, Cultural Resource Advisor with Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child & Family Services and Alderville First Nation community member.
“Today was an important event in our ongoing commitment to building meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations,” said Northumberland County Warden Bob Crate. “The Inaate’abiwin Playroom is a welcoming space where children and families can connect, learn, and explore together. We are grateful to everyone who helped bring this vision to life and for the guidance shared.”
The playroom was created through a partnership between Northumberland County, Early Years Services and Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child & Family Services. The space provides culturally grounded programming and opportunities for children and families to learn, play, and connect.
“This space was created with Indigenous children and families at its heart,” stated Amber Crowe, Executive Director at Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child & Family Services. “Inaate’abiwin provides opportunities for families to explore, connect and grow together in a space that feels like home.”
During the event, Elder/Knowledge Keeper Mary Ann Spencer shared songs and teachings, helping to mark the significance of the occasion and the importance of cultural connection in the early years.
The Inaate’abiwin Playroom will support ongoing Indigenous Early Years programming and serve as a gathering space where children can explore, families can foster new relationships, and community connections can grow.
About Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child & Family Services
Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child & Family Services is a wholistic Indigenous Child & Family Well-Being Agency. The agency provides a stable foundation for children, youth, and families through wraparound supports that are culturally based and family-focused.
Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag seeks to support families in the way they deserve, with care and authenticity, and by recognizing and respecting Spirit.
About EarlyON Child and Family Centres
EarlyON Child and Family Centres offer free programs and services for parents, caregivers, and children from birth to six years of age. Through play-based learning opportunities, family supports, and community connections, EarlyON helps children and families learn, grow, and thrive together.
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