Inside the Huŋkáke Wóihanble Early Learning Center
The Huŋkáke Wóihanble Early Learning Center is helping Maȟpíya Lúta’s youngest learners grow with confidence, curiosity, and a deep connection to Lakota language and culture.
Director Maggie McGhee leads the program and is passionate about creating an environment where children can thrive. The center first opened in August of last year, and just this past August, they celebrated an exciting milestone with the expansion of a new 3–5-year-old classroom. “We are super excited to have more children in the program,” Maggie shared.
The center now has two dedicated classrooms to support different age groups: a toddler classroom for children 18 months to 2 years old, and a primary classroom for children 3 to 5 years old. This thoughtful structure allows educators to tailor learning experiences to each stage of development.
What makes the Huŋkáke Wóihanble Early Learning Center truly unique is its deep commitment to Lakota language and culture. “Our immersion early learning center is unique because it places Lakota language and culture at the heart of every experience as we utilize a culture-based curriculum,” Maggie explained. In an immersive environment, children learn through a Montessori-inspired, child-led approach that encourages curiosity, independence, and confidence. The curriculum is also aligned with South Dakota Early Learning Standards, ensuring a strong academic foundation while fostering identity and belonging.
Lakota language and values are woven seamlessly into daily routines. “We believe integrating Lakota language and culture into daily practices in the classroom can enrich our children’s understanding of their world,” Maggie said. Smudging, singing songs in Lakota, and practicing the Wóopȟe Šakowin (Seven Lakota Values) are all part of the daily rhythm in each classroom.
Each day is filled with hands-on learning opportunities designed to nurture both fine and gross motor skills while sparking natural curiosity. The children engage in activities such as building, sorting, counting, and measuring. Alongside daily language arts and math lessons, they also enjoy arts and crafts, Morning Circle, Story Time, and singing. This well-rounded approach allows them to develop essential early skills while staying engaged and excited about learning.
For Maggie, the best part of her work is witnessing the children’s growth. “I love being part of this program—seeing children grow and thrive in an environment that fosters language, culture, and development. Every day I get to watch their curiosity and confidence flourish as they learn through hands-on exploration, stories, songs, and play.”
Even in its short time, the center has already made a meaningful impact. “Children are growing in confidence, independence, and curiosity while learning Lakota every day. Families are excited to see their children using the language and singing.”
To families considering enrolling, Maggie’s message is heartfelt: “We’d love to have your child join our program! Here, children learn through play and hands-on activities while immersed in the Lakota language. They grow academically, socially, and emotionally, all while developing a strong sense of identity and belonging. Our staff are amazing and your child will be so cared for!”
