This Sunday, August 4th, Australia celebrates National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s day.
This day has been celebrated for over 30 years and gives us an opportunity to reflect on the critical role we play in the development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
Our continued focus on culture in early education
It’s important that all young children have access to a culturally appropriate education and we have made that a priority. Our Early Years Centre in Cairns is welcoming, comfortable and open to all children of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent by ensuring that there are culturally relevant storybooks, artwork and activities.
Recent photographs taken inside our Early Youth Centre in Cairns.
“We want all of our children to know that they belong and we do this by ensuring we have culturally relevant materials throughout our centre for kids to play and interact with.” Cassy Bishop – Manager – Cairns Early Years Centre
Yarn and Craft, is a playgroup held once a week for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Parents and Children.
At Yarn and Craft, parents and children come together in an informal setting to participate in conversation and craft activities. Parents in the group establish support networks and discuss any observations or concerns about their child’s development or any other issues. Free professional advice is also offered out to parents by a support worker on the day. The feedback received from the parents in the group has been positive and when asked, one parent said that everyone in the group is helpful and supportive.
The Yarn and Craft group is free and open to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents and children. There’s no need for referrals, you can just turn up on the day! The group runs from 10 am - 12 pm every Monday during the school terms.
If you have any questions about the playgroup, contact out our Early Years Centre in Cairns on (07) 4034 6800 or download the program flyer here. To find out more about events being held for this day, head to aboriginalchildrensday.com.au.