Introduction

Aboriginal children represent one of the fastest growing population segments in Australia, yet the lives of Aboriginal children in their environment has rarely been subjected to systematic and in depth study. These children have a culturally distinctive way of relating to their environment that is characterised by extensive explorations, exceptional environmental competence, intensive socialisation with peers, and almost limitless freedoms. The physical, social, and cultural aspects influencing children's behaviours and experiences differ somewhat within the Australian Indigenous context where change has been dramatic throughout both pre and post-colonial contact periods. This chapter presents an overview of key concepts such as Perspective matters, relevant literatures, theoretical perspectives, methodological considerations, and the historical situation, children's spatial activity, Design possibility, child-environment congruence that are discussed in the subsequent chapters of the book.