Annual event encourages kids to play, learn and belong

CELEBRATING CULTURE AND KIDS… Aunty Kaylene Atkinson, kinder teacher at Lulla’s Children & Family Centre, entertaining some of the little ones. Photo: Supplied.
CELEBRATING CULTURE AND KIDS… Aunty Kaylene Atkinson, kinder teacher at Lulla’s Children & Family Centre, entertaining some of the little ones. Photo: Supplied.

THE local community is being encouraged to come down to Western Park/All Abilities Playground next Friday, August 2, to take part in the 2019 National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day.

The theme for the 2019 children’s day is ‘We Play, We Learn, We Belong’, promoting the critical importance for early education for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

The day is acknowledged annually across Australia and is an opportunity for all Australians to show support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island children, as well as learn about the crucial impact that culture, family and community play in the life of every child.

Currently, the majority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are thriving and growing up strong in their cultures, with support from friends and family. However, some First Nations children still face ongoing challenges that stem from colonisation and its effects, including discrimination, poverty, systemic removal, intergenerational trauma, dislocation from land and culture, and community disempowerment.

Catholic Care Sandhurst communities for children project officer, Jessie Barnes-Hill said, “During our special event in Shepparton, there will be kids activities, stalls, giveaways, a barbecue lunch and much, much more.

“It is important that we are recognising stolen generations and giving a birthday to all of those children who don’t have a birth date. It’s about raising awareness and giving the kids their own day – the next generation of elders need to be cared for.”

The 2019 National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day will be held from 10am until 1pm, next Friday, August 2 at Western Park/All Abilities Playground (next to Aquamoves).

For further information or to confirm your attendance, please contact Lulla’s Children & Family Centre on 4800 5295, email Jessie Barnes-Hill at jessie.barnes-hill@ccds.org.au or call Communities for Children on 5820 0424.