Featuring the voices of some of the country’s most prominent Indigenous talent, Miranda Tapsell, (Little J) Deborah Mailman (Big Cuz), Aaron Fa’Aoso (Old Dog) and Ningali Lawford-Wolf (Nanna); The show follows five year old Little J and his cousin, nine-year old Big Cuz, as they explore themes of Indigenous identity, connection to country, traditional knowledge and cultural practices.
Guided by their wise Nanna, enthusiastic teacher Ms Chen, Old Dog, Little J and his Big Cuz, they navigate lessons of bravado and humility, impulsiveness and patience, shame and confidence, selfhood and empathy - themes that are common to childhood everywhere.
Select episodes from the series will also feature in six Indigenous languages including Djambarrpuyngu, Pitjantjatjara, Arrernte, Walmajarri, Yawuru and Palawa kani.
NITV Channel Manager Tanya Orman says in an Australian first, Indigenous children see themselves on screen in a positive and fun way.
“Importantly, Little J & Big Cuz works towards demystifying Indigenous culture for non-Indigenous children and enable schools to value and share this culture and knowledge, just as much as it will demystify schools for Indigenous kids.”
Little J & Big Cuz is part of a 'springboard strategy' created by The Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER), with a body of written, visual and interactive teacher and family resource materials being developed. This additional resource material will be used in classrooms as well as the family home to stimulate discussion and encourage active engagement. Not only an animated journey but a cultural experience to enhance children understanding of traditional heritage and the importance and enjoyment of attending school and becoming part of the school community.
"Little J & Big Cuz takes us all on a journey, walking in the footsteps of our little ones, as they make important transitions in life.”
National Voice for our Children, (SNAICC) CEO Gerry Moore says as the national peak body representing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, SNAICC is incredibly proud to be a part of this project.
“Starting school can be daunting for any child and strong partnerships between early childhood services, schools, communities, children and their families are crucial in ensuring a positive transition experience. Little J & Big Cuz takes us all on a journey, walking in the footsteps of our little ones, as they make this important transition.”
Source: NITV News
