217 are born and bred into that context; such practices contribute to children’s development of unique cultural identities. However, these normal, culturally appropriate practices, learned in Indigenous community contexts, may be seen as evidence of a ‘deficiency’or ‘problem’at school or childcare (Malin, Campbell & Aguis 1996; Martin 2005; Spencer 2007). These negative perceptions of differences can affect children’s sense of belonging and their formation of identity; this in turn impacts their learning and their belief in their capacities to learn.