The newest blue Wiggle, Lucia Field, daughter of the original blue Wiggle, Anthony Field, stars in a new project from South Australia’s Hellenic Studies Foundation to bring Greek language and culture into everyday life.
Field, Wags the Dog and the Hellenic Studies Foundation joined Education Minister Lucy Hood to launch the project, called Celebrate Greek Language and Culture with Lucia and The Wiggles at the Adelaide Convention Centre on Friday morning.
The initiative includes a new album, YouTube video and free online resources designed to make learning Greek fun, accessible and engaging for young children.
Created by The Wiggles for SA’s Hellenic Studies Foundation, with support from the state government, the program centres on “music, movement and play”.
“Children learn best when they are having fun, and that is something we know incredibly well at The Wiggles,” Blue Wiggle Lucia Field said.
“Music and movement can make language feel familiar and exciting from a very young age. We’re so proud to be part of a project that helps children discover the joy of the Greek language while celebrating the culture and traditions that are so important to so many Australian families.”
The resources are free and available to families, parents, carers and educators across Australia, helping children learn to speak Greek whether or not they participate in a formal language programme.
The project introduces children to Greek words, sounds and phrases through the familiar combination of music, movement and imagination that has defined The Wiggles’ approach to children’s entertainment.
Education Minister Lucy Hood said the continuation of the partnership was a “fantastic, unique way for new generations to engage with the Greek language and culture”.
“Millions have already engaged with this innovative learning tool, which helps strengthen cultural ties for Australian children of Greek origin, and this expanded program will ensure that many, many more can benefit from this landmark collaboration,” Hood said.
Hellenic Studies Foundation Chair Greg Crafter AO said the project aimed to make Greek a meaningful part of children’s everyday lives.
“We want children to see Greek not simply as a language they want to learn, but as something joyful, meaningful and connected to who they are,” he said.
“Partnering with The Wiggles allows us to reach children and families in an incredibly engaging way and help build that connection from the earliest years.”
