Language Nests
The first Language Nests (Kōhanga reo) began in Aotearoa (New Zealand) in 1982. Broadly, they are spaces where fluent speakers immerse young learners in their language. Language nests have grown in popularity in Alaska for the youngest learners to be able to learn quickly and immersively.
Alutiit'stun Niuwawik
The Sun’aq Tribe’s Alutiiq Language Nest is a place where young children experience Alutiiq as a living language. The goal of the nest is not to teach the language, but to create an environment where young children acquire Alutiiq naturally. In the nest, teachers and volunteers only speak Alutiiq.
Kodiak, Alaska
Haa Yaakwdáat Lingít Yoo X'atángi Kúdi
The goal of this project is to increase proficiency in youth ages 2-7 by establishing and operating a Lingít language nest. The Yakutat Tlingit Tribe will also pilot and expand the current Lingít language resources and curriculum, compiling these lessons into a Teacher Workbook that will be available to second language Tlingit Language teachers regionally by project end. Sustainability will be obtained through credentialing of language nest teachers as Child Care Associates. We will continue to build the Lingít language proficiency of our Assistant Teachers, further propelling them into Advanced levels of fluency.
Yakutat, Alaska
Haa Yóo Xatángi Kúdi
Haa Yoo X’atángi Kúdi is a State of Alaska licensed child care program that serves children three to five (3-5) years of age in Juneau, Alaska. The focus of the language immersion nest is to teach cultural, social and academic content using only the Lingít language as the medium for instruction.
Juneau, Alaska
More Language Nest Resources
Resources for previous language nests or from programs outside Alaska.