National Child Protection week is a timely reminder for all parents, carers and families of the importance of hearing the voices of children and young people.

The 2024 theme for National Child Protection Week is ‘Every conversation matters’.

After some brainstorming on how to promote this message, staff developed and distributed ‘conversation starter’ activity packs across the wider community for primary and pre-school students to complete.

TFSS Manager Family Preservation Bryarne Bielefeld said the activities prompt children to think about who makes them feel safe and connected.

“Having children use their drawing and artistic skills to answer these questions can be helpful in starting different conversations.

"Some of the most important conversations are when kids approach us. We all have busy lives, and it can be hard to stop, but the most important conversation for kids is when we take two minutes to listen to them when they approach us.”

“When we take the time to talk and listen to children and young people, we show that we value their thoughts and feelings. This helps create a sense of trust and understanding, making them feel more comfortable and confident in expressing themselves,” said Ms Bielefeld.

The completed activities are on display at Tamworth Shoppingworld, Gunnedah PCYC, Armidale PCYC, Inverell Town Library and TFSS Moree Office.

"What we want our community to take away from this initiative is that having these smaller conversations can help build connections and support young people to feel comfortable having the big conversations,” said Ms Bielefeld.

Thank you to all the teachers, parents, students and community partners who supported and engaged in these activities.