1Fostering our Future

FosteringOURISSUE 33

SPRING/SUMMER 2014

Future

Meet the carers 3

Spotlight on Autism 9

Aboriginal sisters shine 12INSIDE

bumper issue

Happy New Year!

Transfer in the blink of an eyeGetting ready for the new school yearMake a safe splash: water safety

2 Fostering our Future

Fostering our Future can only continue to be a valuable resource with your feedback. If you’d like to see a particular topic covered,

have an interesting story, or you wish to nominate a child in your care to be profiled confidentially, please email us at: fostercarers@facs.nsw.gov.au.

Happy New Year!

Welcome to the bumper edition of Fostering our Future. I hope you’re having a wonderful holiday season. This time of year can sometimes be difficult for children and young people in care and I thank you for helping to make it a loving and joyful time for these special people.

You may have seen in the media that I recently announced major reforms to strengthen the child protection system. These reforms are designed to support parents, courts and caseworkers to ensure vulnerable children in NSW can have a safe home for life. You can read more about these improvements on page 5. In upcoming editions of Fostering our Future we will delve deeper into how we are making adoptions easier and how this will affect you as carers.

In honour of International Day of People with Disability (on 3 December) and to celebrate the incredible role of carers of children with disability, we bring you Jenny and Doug’s carer story on page 3. They foster Megan* who at only weeks old was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and developmental delay.

Our psychology feature on page 9 shines a light on Autism and everyday strategies you can use to help children with Autism feel safe and secure.

On page 12 you can read about three very talented Aboriginal sisters in care who are staying connected to their culture and taking on the world stage with their traditional dance.

Barbara, an Aboriginal carer from Lismore, has kindly shared her experience transferring to Ngunya Jarjum on page 4 – saying she wished she’d transferred sooner.

Starting at a new school, whether beginning Kindergarten or graduating from Primary to High School, can be an exciting but stressful time for families, and particularly for children in care. We’ve spoken with a resident psychologist to bring you some practical advice on what you can do with your child to get them ready for this important milestone in their life (page 16).

Thank you for the amazing contributions you have made to the lives of the children you care for throughout the last year. I’m looking forward to checking in with you later in 2014.

Minister’s Message

Fostering our Future is published by:Community Services, Department of Family and Community Services© State of New South Wales. ISSN 1833-0622

Due to space limitations Fostering our Future cannot guarantee that all contributions submitted will be published. The Editor reserves the right to edit, abridge, amend or otherwise alter any material submitted for publication. All people appearing in pictures are models unless otherwise stated.

All rights reserved. Except as provided in the Copyright Act 1968 (Cwlth), no use of this work which is within the exclusive right of the copyright owner may be made. No part of this work may be

reproduced, translated, modified, reduced, transmitted or stored in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording, or by any information storage or retrieval system without prior written permission of Community Services, Department of Family and Community Services.

Requests and enquiries concerning reproduction and rights are welcome. Call (02) 9716 2222, email fostercarers@facs.nsw.gov.au, or write to:

Editor, Fostering our Future, Community Services, Locked Bag 4028, ASHFIELD NSW 2131.

While every care has been taken in the preparation of Fostering our Future and the information it contains

is believed to be accurate, Community Services suggests professional advice is sought where necessary. Community Services cannot be liable for any error, omission or damages arising from the supply, performance or use of Fostering our Future, and makes no warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied, in relation to it.

Fostering our Future is printed on 55 per cent recycled paper that uses no elemental chlorine and is certified by the international Forest Stewardship Council scheme.

You can read past and present issues of Fostering our Future online at www.community.nsw.gov.au/fostercarer_resources

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3Fostering our Future

Jenny and Doug Ney have been foster parents since 1997 and since then have had over a dozen children through their door. Today they are parents to five children; two adopted sons and three daughters in long‐term foster care.

The Ney’s started their fostering journey after they were unable to have children of their own, “We always felt like we had a lot of love to give, so when we were unable to fall pregnant, fostering felt like a great alternative,” said Jenny.

Jenny and Doug adopted two little boys and then in 2003, their entire world changed with the arrival of Megan*. Megan was just seven weeks old when she arrived at the Ney’s home. Despite being weeks old, Megan had already been diagnosed with cerebral palsy and developmental delay due to having been shaken at four weeks.

The Ney’s knew Megan would need a lot of extra support but they didn’t hesitate to take her in as they knew she might miss out on the love and care she desperately needed if they said no.

Megan is now ten years old and a delight to the family. Despite being non-verbal, she communicates in a language all her own. Megan has many friends and loves travelling in the Ney’s caravan on family holidays together. She goes to school, physiotherapy and occupational therapy where she practices weight bearing and other techniques to look after her body.

Since opening their hearts and their home, the Ney’s have become avid supporters of fostering and encourage anyone to do what they can, when they can. Jenny, who was Barnardo’s Mother of the Year in 2008, says there is no such thing as the perfect child. “Every child is unique and different and some will need more support than others but the day you see a frightened, traumatised child turn

around and give you their first cuddle, smile or kiss it makes it all worthwhile because you know they feel safe and loved”.

Jenny and Doug transitioned to Challenge Children’s Services in June of this year and since then have really appreciated the support and attention provided. Regional Manager, Lisa Andersen, helped ensure a smooth transition to Challenge and continues to work closely with the Ney’s to help them in their journey. “We were reluctant at first to transition but once we met Lisa, she was so supportive and easy to talk to, we knew we would be just fine with Challenge”. l

A whole lot of love

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“We always felt like we had a lot of love to give”

“When they give you their first cuddle, smile or kiss it makes it all worthwhile”

Meet the carers

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OOHC Transition

Transferring was like blinking your eyes!Barbara is 68 years old and was a Community Services carer for more than 10 years before transferring to Ngunya Jarjum, an Aboriginal agency in Lismore. Barbara has provided care to more than 50 children. We chatted to Barbara about the transition.

Barbara has three Aboriginal children in her care – her granddaughter is in supported care and two boys who are related to her are in statutory care. Barbara was one of the first to sign up with Ngunya Jarjum.

“I was in Casino, and I thought I’d drop in to Ngunya Jarjum and have a yarn,” says Barbara. “We got yarning about the transition and Aunt said, ‘Have you thought about changing over to us?’ I said, ‘Oh well, I’ve got nothing to lose’.

Barbara admits she didn’t know about the transition at first, “They were all talking about it, but it never really registered. I thought, ‘Well if it happens, it happens.’ I’m glad it did”.

Barbara praises Ngunya Jarjum for their support during her move from Community Services. She says they did all the paperwork and she didn’t have to do a thing.

Benefits of being with Ngunya Jarjum?

“The kids feel a lot better if they got a black person seeing them. And I can talk to the blackfellas better. It’s also the way you’re treated. When Kay [from Ngunya Jarjum] comes, I get a cuddle, and we sit down and have a coffee and talk. I just drop in for a cuppa sometimes.

“I know if I needed something, they’d be there. I’ve noticed a difference in the kids, too. They run out to see the blackfellas. The kids just seem to hang off Kay. And they’re all there to see her off, too. That makes me feel good.

“It was like blinking your eyes. That’s what it felt like. It was all done through Ngunya Jarjum. That made it really easy. It was all roses as far as I’m concerned. If it wasn’t, I’d soon let them know!”

Barbara’s advice to other Aboriginal carers

“Move over! No holds barred, mate, go! I love Ngunya Jarjum. The best thing I ever did was change over. ‘Cause I know I can go in there and I can say G’day because I know ’em. They speak the same language and they understand. It’s just all good!” l

Ngunya Jarjum means “all our children”. Ngunya Jarjum is an accredited community-based Aboriginal agency that focuses on meeting the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children requiring out of home care. The agency provides a quality, culturally appropriate service that ensures their safety and wellbeing. Ngunya Jarjum also recruits, trains and supports Aboriginal carers from throughout the Far North Coast.

For more information visit www.ngunyajarjum.com

“I know if I needed something, they’d be there”

5Fostering our Future

News

Transferring was like blinking your eyes!

On 21 November the Child Protection Legislative Reform: A Safe Home for Life was introduced into Parliament. The proposed reforms are a step towards strengthening a system that better places children and their families at the centre of decision-making.

The proposed reforms clearly set out action to ensure children have a safe home for life. Whether that is with their parents who are supported to be able to make the changes they need to make to keep their children safe, or through placement in stable

family, kin or guardianship care, or open adoption.

Minister Pru Goward said; “We are shifting the debate from parental rights to parental obligations – putting the child’s needs first. Tools like Family Group Conferencing, Parental Responsibility Contracts and Parenting Capacity Orders will give us greater flexibility to work with families to address risk factors and enhance their strengths’.

The new reforms will mean:

• reduced number of children in the child protection system

• only the right children enter out of home care, out of home care is not the best option for all children

• streamlined processes towards permanency and stability for at-risk children who cannot live at home safely.

Minister Goward added “We will continue to work with our community partners and other agencies to ensure we approach all of this in a coordinated way”. l

Time is running out. Make sure you complete your application online, have your ID verified at a motor registry talk to a caseworker and your local Community Services Centre, and tell your caseworker your CSC application number as soon as possible.

Have you applied for the new Working With Children Check?

A Safe Home for Life: Child Protection Reforms

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News

New Carer Reference Groups will start up this year to give carers of children and young people in care a voice in the changing out of home care system in NSW. These will replace Community Services Regional Foster Carer Advisory Groups.

Carer Reference Groups (CRGs) are a way for carers to contribute to the decisions that impact on both carers and children and young people. They are about collaborating with carer

representatives and staff from non-government agencies as well as Community Services to positively enhance the fostering experience by focusing on carer support, training and retention.

This is in line with the NSW out of home care standards that say authorised carers should be given the opportunity to participate in decision-making, have the opportunity to give feedback and participate in out of home care committees or forums.

Carers interested in being part of the Carer Reference Groups groups will have the opportunity in 2014 to apply to become a member. The groups will be made up of carers and representatives from non government organisations and Community Services. The groups will meet every three months and at this stage, membership will be renewed every 18 months to allow for new members to get involved. l

New carer reference group for the new year

Are you:• Passionate about making sure carers have a voice?

• Keen to shine a spotlight on best approaches to carer support and training?

• Proactive in talking about issues facing carers?

• Focused on looking at solutions to challenges faced by carers?

Then you may be interested in being part of a CRG!

For more information call 9716 2540. More information about how to apply will be provided to carers soon.

7Fostering our Future

News

Personal stories shared with Royal CommissionThe Royal Commission into Institutional Reponses to Child Sexual Abuse has held four Public Hearings in Sydney since its inception at the start of 2013. The Commissioners have also facilitated private sessions in every State and Territory to ensure survivors of child sexual abuse can share their stories.

Royal Commission CEO, Janette Dines, said around 800 people have shared their personal stories, making a significant contribution to the Commissioners’ understanding of the devastating impact of institutional child sexual abuse and how it might be prevented in the future.

The Commission has also released four ‘Issues Papers’ focused on topics relevant to child protection. These can be viewed on the Royal Commission’s website: www.childabuseroyalcommission.gov.au

An interim report on the Royal Commission is due on 30 June 2014 and the final report is expected to be delivered on 31 December 2015. l

Teenage Education PaymentWhat is the payment for?

The payment can be used to help young people stay at school or in training. The payment is also for activities such as school camps, excursions and holiday programs or for developing skills such as driving or additional tutoring. Carers who receive the payment are still eligible for extra financial (formerly contingencies) support for education related expenses. l

For more information you can:

• talk to a caseworker at your local Community Services Centre or foster care agency

• phone Foster Care Support, AbSec on 1800 888 698

• phone Connecting Carers NSW on 1300 794 653

• visit www.community.nsw.gov.au

New carer reference group for the new year Tell Someone Who Cares conferenceMore than 600 carers and professionals across Australia recently attended the Tell Someone Who Cares conference that was held in conjunction with National Carers’ Conference in Sydney last November.

The conference gave carers the opportunity to learn, network and celebrate caring and fostering.

One carer said the conference encouraged her to feel positive about all the years of commitment she has made as a carer.

“I attended the Conference in 2012 and found the experience inspirational, motivational and spiritually rewarding as a carer of many years. This year was no exception, highlighting the positive reasons why we foster and reinforcing the commitment that we all make in our lives to look after the children that we do”. l

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News

Health plans for children and young people in careAuthorised carers play an essential role in improving the health and wellbeing of children and young people in their care.

As carers, your participation in the development and follow-up of recommendations contained in health plans for children and young people in care is vital to the success of the Health Pathway. It is designed to improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people in your care.

The Health Pathway sets out five steps for providing timely health screening, assessments, interventions and reviews of children and young people in care and includes:

• a primary health screening within 30 days of the child or young person entering care, which may lead to a comprehensive health assessment if required

• the coordination of appropriate services

• a periodic review.

A standard casework procedure since 2010, the Health Pathway identifies the roles of authorised carers, NSW Health, Family and Community Services and out of home care agencies at each stage.

Carers are uniquely placed to monitor the daily health of a child or young person in care and to encourage their participation in the Health Management Plan.

The department is currently improving casework practice procedures to include updated information about the Health Pathway. l

Go4Fun helps children and young people get healthyChildren and young people in care across New South Wales are able to benefit from an exercise and healthy eating program that encourages them to improve their wellbeing.

Go4Fun is a free, ten-week program for children aged seven to 13 years who are above an ideal weight range.

Sessions are held once or twice a week for two hours after school during the school term.

The program combines three elements necessary for a sustained lifestyle change: exercise and physical activity; good nutrition and healthy eating; and behavioural change.

Enrolments are now open for the first school term of 2014 for the program, which is funded by the New South Wales Ministry of Health as part of the Healthy Children’s Initiative.

Children and young people can be referred to the program from a caseworker or can self refer through their family by completing a referral form, free calling 1800 780 900, SMS for a callback 0409 745 645 or registering online

For more information please call 1800 780 900 or visit www.go4fun.com.au l

9Fostering our Future

Psychology

We look at some every day strategies that can be useful in helping children and young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) manage with the day-to-day. But first, a little bit about ASD.

The abilities of children and young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can range from individuals with severe and profound learning disabilities and very high support needs to those who have average or well above average intellectual ability.

A lifelong developmental disorder, ASD looks different at different ages. Children with ASD have difficulties with social communication, for example:

• rarely using language to communicate with other people

• not speaking at all

• not copying other people’s actions (such as clapping)

• having fixated interest and repetitive behaviours like lining up toys in a very particular way over and over again, having very narrow interests, eating only certain foods.

The world can be a very confusing place for children with ASD and also for those who care for them. When they are upset but unable to say what is bothering them they may become distressed. The following are some things to be aware of and ways you can minimise negative experiences for your child if they have ASD.

Be mindful of your child’s sensory boundaries

Many children with ASD are hypersensitive to light, sound, touch, taste, and smell. By contrast, others are the opposite and are under sensitive to their environment meaning they can put themselves in danger for example by running on to the road. Typically, developing children have sensory sensitivities too but they often grow out of them as they get older. Notice what sights, sounds, smells, movements,

and tactile sensations upset or overwhelms the child or triggers meltdowns and also what makes them happy or settled. What does the child find stressful? Calming? Uncomfortable? Enjoyable?

Have a quiet space at home and at school where your child knows they can go when they are feeling overwhelmed. Some children will need toys that provide more stimulation (squashy balls) or extra playtime, times for listening to music or for bouncing on a trampoline.

Look for nonverbal cues

When children with ASD act out, it’s often because they are trying to show you what they want but they are not clear communicators. They may also have language problems which makes it even harder to understand what might be going on. If you are observant, you can learn to pick up on the nonverbal cues. Pay attention to the kinds of sounds they make, their facial [

Shining a light on Autism Spectrum Disorder

“A lifelong developmental disorder, ASD looks different

at different ages”

“The world can be a very confusing place for

children with ASD”

10 Fostering our Future

Psychology

expressions, and the gestures they use when they’re tired, hungry, or want something. Help them develop language to express their feelings and tools that add to their communication like gestures or picture cards.

Stick to a routine

You probably already do this as most children and young people in care need routines to help them feel safe. Children with ASD need a highly-structured routine with regular times for meals, activities, school, and bedtime. Some children with ASD can become easily upset by change and must follow a particular routine or way of doing something like sleeping or eating or leaving the house which must be done the same way every time. Try to avoid disrupting this routine. If there is an unavoidable change, prepare your child in advance. Things like visual prompts, timetables and slow

transitions with reminders can help. Social stories can also be useful by letting your child know what’s going to happen to them in ways they can understand.

Use social stories

One way to prepare children for changes is by using a social story which is a simple guide to what is going to happen. For example you might have a social story book to prepare a child for a family celebration or to make sure the

child understands what they need to do to get ready for school. If you read the social story to the child regularly they are much more prepared for an event. Your caseworker or teacher at school may be able to help you make social story books or you may have a practitioner who is skilled in this area (check out Raising Children’s Network or Autism Spectrum Australia for more information).

“When children with ASD act out, it’s often because

they are trying to show you what they want”

11Fostering our Future

Reward good behaviour

All children need praise to show them when they are on the right track. Praise them and pay attention when they act appropriately or learn a new skill, being very specific about what behaviour they’re being praised for, especially for something like coping well with change and

displaying flexibility. Also look for other ways to reward them for positive behaviour, such as giving them a sticker or star on a chart.

Make time for fun

Children in care often have difficulty relaxing and having fun because of the abuse and neglect they have suffered. But play is the work of childhood. To have fun

together you need to think about the things that make your child smile, laugh, and come out of their shell. Having fun times when you enjoy your child’s company gives you good memories to sustain you on the difficult days. l

Sleep Sleep problems are very common in children with ASD. This can also have an enormous impact on their families. If children with ASD have significant problems with hypersensitivity to touch, light or sound it may be hard for them to soothe themselves so they cannot easily fall asleep.

Introducing an hour’s quiet time before the child’s bedtime could serve two purposes. Doing a quiet activity could help them unwind and it also provides a valuable social cue. If everyone in the house is quiet and relaxed then it is

clearly bed time but if the house is still lively and noisy, it is naturally harder to go to sleep.

To introduce a quiet period, start with small things, such as turning off the TV and computer for an hour. It may take a while to get into this pattern but it could have a huge impact when you do. You can then do the usual soothing bedtime routines such as bath time and reading a story or factual book.

For more information on sleep problems check out raisingchildren.net.au/articles/autism_spectrum_disorder_sleep_difficulties.html

“play is the work of childhood”

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In profile

Three Aboriginal sisters from Sydney are making their mark in the world of dance.

Nikita, 13, Shakira, 11 and Chantae, 9, have been practising their dance steps regularly since joining the family of foster carer Pauline five years ago.

Proud carer Pauline recognised their talents early and the importance of connecting the girls to their culture. She arranged for the girls to join the local Wagana Aboriginal dance group in the Blue Mountains.

Now the three girls are preparing for their first trip overseas, where Nikita will dance at the

Commonwealth Youth Dance Festival being held in Glasgow, as part of the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

“We’re absolutely thrilled that Nikita has been chosen to dance with five other Wagana dancers at the Commonwealth Youth Dance Festival in Glasgow, Scotland this year. It is an amazing opportunity for our young Aboriginal girls to dance on a world stage. Nikita is very excited and is training and practicing hard. Shakira and Chantae are also very happy and proud of their sister”. Pauline said.

“My ancestry is Scottish and it’s exciting that I am able to share my cultural heritage with the girls as we all prepare for our first overseas trip together”.

Through Wagana the girls’ talents have truly been honed under the guidance of Aboriginal dancer, choreographer and teacher Jo Clancy.

The girls and Jo are all descendants of the Wiradjuri people, adding to their cultural mentoring. ‘Wagana’ means ‘to dance’ in Wiradjuri language.

Jo has ensured the girls’ ties with their cultural heritage have been strengthened and developed through her teachings and events.

Aboriginal sisters shine on the dance floor

“Proud carer Pauline recognised their talents

early and the importance of connecting the girls to

their culture”

“Our aim is to show the love of sharing culture through dance, music

and storytelling”

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“Nikita, Shakira and Chantae love performing the Clearing; Dragonfly; Wirawee; Waratah and Baskets. These are inspired by the beautiful Blue Mountain’s country. They honour and respect the Darug and Gundungurra peoples as the traditional custodians of the Blue Mountains. Our aim is to show the love of sharing culture through dance, music and storytelling,” Jo said.

The girls have already performed at many occasions from Welcome to Country ceremonies, cultural camps and NAIDOC performances. Last year was busy with performances at Carriage Works in Redfern and Blue Mountains 200 years Crossing ceremonies earlier in 2013.

Jo said that working with the sisters is a delight.

“The girls love and care about each other very much. They have a strong bond and sharing Aboriginal dancing strengthens this bond. We are family and they are my little sisters.”

Pauline said the girls also have a great relationship with their older siblings, nieces and nephews. “We visit or talk to them on the phone often or they come and visit us. Many aunties and cousins have also watched the girls dance. Sharing dance with their family brings a great sense of pride and happiness to both the girls and their family.”

Pauline recognises the incredible value of sharing this aspect of their culture with family, “Having contact

with their family and culture strengthens their own identity.”

To Pauline the girls are simply remarkable and she said she couldn’t be more proud of them and their achievements.

“The past five years has been an emotional journey for us all. There have been times of amazing happiness and laughter, but there has also been a time of grief and heartache. Children in out of home care have many struggles and emotions to deal with. I have watched these girls grow and become more confident in all they do and accomplish. They are truly remarkable”. l

“They have a strong bond and sharing

Aboriginal dancing strengthens this bond”

“Having contact with their family and

culture strengthens their own identity”

Shakira, Nikita, dance teacher Jo Clancy and Chantae

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Swimming pools provide hours of fun for the whole family so long as a few simple safety rules are followed.

Each year too many children die in NSW from drowning.

According to the Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report 2013 swimming pool deaths for children aged 0-14 have risen against the ten year average.

When children are taught to swim from an early age they build confidence – it’s good to talk to children about water confidence

Water safety

Make a splash this summer: water safety

Water safety

Dam safetyDid you know five to six children drown in farm dams and water bodies each year?

Most of these children are aged below five, and one third are visitors to the farm.

Having a securely fenced house yard or “safe play area” with child resistant gates and latches is the best way to prevent farm tragedies.

and what they know about water safety. Many swim schools now teach basic water survival techniques. It is a good idea for all children to learn these.

Always remember to never leave children unattended by the water – even if they know how to swim.

Most pools are not meant for diving. Severe injuries can result from divers hitting the bottom or sides of the pool. Protect your family and friends by adopting a no diving policy. Display a sign in the pool area and use depth

markers on, or near, the pool. Diving boards, slippery dips, slides and trampolines can be dangerous near pools and should not be used.

If you’re at the beach, always swim between the flags.

Supervision

Children should never be left unsupervised and children under five should always have an adult swimming within an arm’s reach from them. Nominate a designated ‘child supervisor’ during parties or large gatherings to make sure children are supervised at all times.

This will help stop unsupervised access to farm hazards, such as dams and other dangers. Families need to ensure young children stay in this safe play area unless an adult is available to take them out and closely supervise them.

For more information about child farm safety, visit www.farmsafe.org.au, email info@farmsafe.org.au or call the Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety on 6752 8218.

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If this person needs to leave then make sure a new supervisor is agreed on. The supervisor should be sober and not drinking alcohol.

Safety by the pool

• keep an eye on young children – supervision is a must

• have some rules about locking gates, waiting for a grown up, no running or diving, and no rough play

• make sure the pool fencing and gate meet safety standards which includes having a self-closing gate

• learn CPR or update CPR skills annually and make sure young children learn to swim – water confidence prevents drownings.

Home water safety

• don’t leave water in eskies, buckets, baths or toddler pools. Young children can still drown in very small amounts of water. Toddler pools must be fenced if the water depth is more than 30cms.

• know where your child is and keep doors and gates locked if there are water tanks, drains or fountains where you live

• never leave children under five years of age or children of any age that have a disability alone in the bath or in the supervision of older children

• never bathe children with epilepsy – showers only.

Pool fencing - always make sure the pool gate is firmly shut.

Pool owners are now required by law to conduct a self assessment of the safety of their pool and to register the pool with their local council.

Further information can be found on www.swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au. The requirements for child-resistant barriers vary depending on when the pool was built and where the pool is located.

For pools built before 1 August 1990, access to the pool from the house must be restricted at all times. Windows and doors may form part of the barrier, but they must be compliant.

For pools built after 1 August 1990 but before 1 July 2010, the pool

must be surrounded by a fence that separates the pool from the house. Some exemptions apply to pools on very small properties (less than 230 square metres), large properties (2 hectares or over) and those on waterfront properties.

All new pools built after 1 July 2010 must be surrounded by a fence that separates the pool from the house. This information and more can be found on www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au. l

More summer safety tipsDo not leave children alone in cars – not even for a few minutes. On average, one child a week is reported as left unattended in a car. The temperature can rise quickly during summer – enough to kill a child in less time than it will take you to do the grocery shop.

Be mindful of where children are while you’re driving – small children can be hard to see if you’re reversing out of a driveway, or if you’re distracted.

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New school year

The start of the school year is exciting but can be an anxious time for most children in care.

A little preparation can go a long way to overcoming fears and creating a smooth start to the school year.

Kindergarten and preschool

A first day at kindergarten is an emotional time for parents, carers and children.

It marks a turning point in the lives of young children as they take their first real steps towards independence.

They’ll look to their parents or carers for reassurance during the first few days; and being calm and organised will play a major role in settling them into a new routine.

If your child goes to preschool or a long day care centre, talk to staff about their transition to kindergarten.

Children start Kindergarten at the beginning of the school year if they turn five on or before 31 July in that year. By law, all children

must be enrolled in school by their sixth birthday.

Children in care who turn five in the first half of the school year may have a better start if they begin school when they are nearly six. You can talk to preschool staff about this.

Preschools provide an early childhood program for children one year before kindergarten.

Primary and high school

Starting primary or high school is another milestone in a child’s life.

Now is the time to talk positively with your child about the move to their next school.

Find out what they are looking forward to and what worries them about this next step. Visit the new school’s website with the child and discuss the map and photos.

Help them to create a quiet work area at home, and review their supplies of stationery, personal hygiene items for school bags, uniforms and break in the new school shoes.

Now is also the time to start thinking about school routines from using alarm clocks to what your child will do before and after school, and what time they need to be home.

It’s also the time to discuss emergency and safety issues with your child, making sure they have the necessary phone numbers in case of emergencies and are aware of stranger danger in the community and online.

After school fun

Encourage children to get physically active with games that improve their coordination, balance and movement. This will also build their confidence and self-esteem.

In your backyard this could include organising a family barbeque, helping in the garden or playing with a family pet.

In your home, indoor activities could include cooking, drawing, playing board games or research.

In your community the places to play range from your local

Getting ready for the new school year

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swimming pool to playgrounds and parks, cycle tracks and museums or public libraries.

Why play is so important

When children know what is expected of them in the classroom and the playground, they can go to school with confidence.

Adapting to school takes time for all children, and for children in care it can present special challenges.

Children in care are more likely to get suspended for playground behaviour than classroom conduct, often because they don’t know how to play properly.

In primary school, children spend more time in the playground than on literacy and numeracy. To help with this you can teach playground games.

If you can take the time to play with them, you will find they become calmer and interact better with other children. By playing with you and other children, they can learn to play safely without getting upset and importantly learn to enjoy themselves.

Some of the games you can play include ‘I spy’ or ‘Simon Says’ to get them used to following instruction.

Helpful websitesFor videos about high school go to www.schools.nsw.edu.au/highschool

Find out more about preparing for school, go to www.schools.nsw.edu.au/gotoschool/ and click on ‘going to a public school’ or www.schoolatoz.nsw.edu.au

For sport and recreational activities go to www.dsr.nsw.gov.au/gatewaytosport

Checklist for starting school• make sure you have the school’s phone number• take your child to your local community health nurse or doctor for a health check before school starts

• if your child has an allergy, medical condition, takes medication or has any special needs, inform the school as early as possible and make an appointment to see the Principal• make arrangements for travel by contacting Transport NSW on phone 1800 227 774 or go to www.transport.nsw.gov.au/ssts• organise out of school hours care if required• practise walking or travelling to school

• educate your child about safety and ‘stranger danger’. Teach your child not to talk to strangers and not to accept gifts or lifts from someone they don’t know.• label equipment and clothing

Card games also increase familiarity with letters and numbers and important concepts of turn-taking, losing and winning.

It is also helpful to talk about what they have to do to be good at school, including topics such as listening and following instructions and to always encourage them to do their best.

Remind them too that while giving their best is important, it’s okay if they don’t get everything right all of the time. l

18 Fostering our Future

Events

CREATE Foundation proudly held its inaugural international conference in Canberra last November.

This year titled ‘Strength to Strength’, the conference drew together over 360 people made up of around 160 children and young people with a care experience as well as carers, representatives from government and non-government organisations and local and international child protection experts.

Community Services sponsored more than 20 children to attend the conference.

With workshops and talks on topics such as international perspectives on young people’s transition to adulthood to sharing your story through cartoons, the conference focused on improving the care system for children and young people through participation. Aimed at raising awareness within the community to reduce the stigma associated with children and young people with a care experience, the

conference was also a platform for children and young people to have a say and feel heard.

Tenielle, a young person who attended, said she had an amazing experience and met some great people, “An excellent way for young people to all come together and be more confident with themselves as a young person in care. I will definitely be going to the event in 2015”.

On the last day of the conference, CREATE Chief Executive Offier, Jacqui Reed, announced they would hold another national conference in October 2015 bringing people together with the goal to foster respect and empowerment amongst children and young people and to learn from the past and work towards improving keeping children safe.

“We have been collectively overwhelmed by the show of support for our unique conference, with hundreds of attendees from all over the country and speakers from across the globe”.

CREATE Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation connecting children and young people in care that aims to improve the care system through activities, programs, training and advocacy.

CREATE’s vision is for all children and young people with a care experience to reach their full potential.

CREATE run activities in NSW like Youth Advisory Groups, Caseworker training and Speak Up – a program for young people aged 14-25 years old that trains ‘young consultants’ to fight for change in the care system through advocacy.

For more information visit www.create.org.au or call 1800 655 105.

“An excellent way for young people to all come together

and be more confident with themselves as a young

person in care”.

CREATE’s Strength to Strength conference

CREATE Foundation Chief Executive Jacqui Reed

19Fostering our Future

The Association of Children’s Welfare Agencies (ACWA) marked the beginning of NSW’s 23rd Foster Care Week by staging a massive picnic for foster carers and their families at Sydney’s Parramatta Park.

In September more than 700 picnic-goers turned out to the event, making the most of the lovely Spring weather and the array of activities which included rides, stalls, face painting, live music, a petting zoo, dance performances and carnival food. Bubbly 2013 Masterchef contestant and foster mum Jules Allen and Dorothy the Dinosaur were there to bring some star power to the day, while dozens of volunteers and agency

staff pitched in to see that all ran smoothly on the day.

Minister for Family and Community Services Pru Goward was on hand to acknowledge and thank foster carers for the crucial role they play in our community.

“Foster carers change lives by giving children and young people new opportunities and helping to break cycles of disadvantage,” Ms Goward said.

“They offer care and love day in day out, literally changing lives with little public recognition.”

ACWA Deputy CEO Wendy Foote said NSW is lucky to have people in the community who are dedicated to providing children in care a safe, loving home to thrive.

“NSW is lucky to have people in the community who

are dedicated to providing children in care a safe, loving home to thrive”.

ACWA’s picnic in the park

ACWA is currently running the statewide “Open Your Heart” Fostering NSW campaign to help fill an ongoing need for foster carers. Visit the Fostering NSW website www.fosteringnsw.com.au to find out more fostering, or contact the Fostering NSW hotline on 1800 236 783.

“Foster Care Week gives us the chance to recognise these quiet achievers who live in our midst,” she said.

“Thanks to their love and generosity, they are helping children in care achieve stability and better outcomes for the future”. l

20 Fostering our Future

COMMUNITY SERVICESCasework staff or your local Community Services Centre (CSC) should be the first point of contact for any queries. To find your local CSC, look under ‘Community Services, Department of’ in the White Pages.www.community.nsw.gov.au

Child Protection Helpline

T: 132 111 TTY: (02) 9633 7698

Foster Care Complaints freecall: Freecall: 1800 000 164

OTHER USEFUL CONTACTSConnecting Carers NSW

Free advice, information, training and support across NSW plus information sessions for carers, workers and the public.T: 1300 794 653www.connectingcarersnsw.com.au

Foster Parents Support Network Telephone support services to carers.T: (02) 9608 8494 Freecall: 1800 262 445 (24 hrs) www.fosterparentsupportnetwork.org.au

Karitane Child and family help services and a 24-hour care line.T: 1300 227 464 www.karitane.com.au

Parent Line NSW Telephone advice and information service for carers and parents.Freecall: 1300 130 052

CREATE Foundation Supports young people living in out-of-home care and those who have left care.T: (02) 9267 0977 Freecall: 1800 655 105www.create.org.au

Administrative Decisions Tribunal (ADT) Independent, external review of administrative decisions.T: 1800 060 410 TTY: (02) 9235 2674www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/adt

Centrelink A range of government services throughout Australia. www.centrelink.gov.au

NSW Ombudsman An independent and impartial government agency watchdog.T: (02) 9286 1000 Freecall: 1800 451 524www.ombo.nsw.gov.au

ABORIGINAL SPECIFIC SERVICESAbSec

Aboriginal Child, Family and Community Care State Secretariat Aboriginal carers and carers of Aboriginal kids can visit AbSec’s website for the latest news and information about carer support groups. www.absec.org.au

ASFCSS AbSec’s Statewide Aboriginal Foster Carer Support Service (ASFCSS)Freecall: 1800 888 698 T: (02) 9264 0088E: foster@absec.org.au www.absec.org.au/foster-care

LEAVING CARE

Link-up NSW Helps Aboriginal adults separated from their families as children, and Aboriginal families separated from their children. T: (02)4759 1911 www.linkupnsw.org.au

Marungbai Aboriginal Service Supports Aboriginal young people who have been in care.T: 1800 422 555 or T: (02) 6551 3973

HEALTH & MEDICAL

Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council Contact details of Aboriginal Medical Services (AMSs), which provide primary health care to local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. T: (02) 9212 4777

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Aboriginal Education Council T: (02) 9660 5696 www.aec.org.au

AECG NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group provides advice on behalf of Aboriginal communities on education and training. T: (02) 9550 5666 www.aecg.nsw.edu.au

NSW Department of Education and Training Aboriginal Education and Training www.aboriginaleducation.nsw.edu.au

Tranby Aboriginal College An alternative, independent learning environment Freecall: 1800 601 988 www.tranby.edu.au

ABORIGINAL AGENCIES

Abcare T: (02) 6648 3680

Aboriginal Medical Service Western Sydney T: (02) 9832 1356

GLMACS (Great Lakes Manning Aboriginal Children’s Services) – Biripi Aboriginal Corporation Medical Service T: (02) 6551 2088

Burrun Dalai Aboriginal Corporation T: (02) 6562 1913

Illawarra Aboriginal Corporation – Myimbarr T: (02) 4226 3358

KARI Aboriginal Resources T: (02) 8782 0300

Miyagan Aboriginal Development Association (in partnership with Anglicare) T: 1800 367 837 (Anglicare)

Miyan Munga (in partnership with Barnardos) T: (02) 6342 4223

Ngunya Jarjum Aboriginal Child and Family Network Inc. T: (02) 6626 3700 / 0400 521 488

Ngurambang (in partnership with Uniting Care Burnside T: (02) 6885 5010 (Uniting Care Burnside)

RivMed (in partnership with Anglicare) T: (02) 6927 0400 (ask for Cecily)

South Coast Medical Service Aboriginal Corporation OOHC T: (02) 4428 6666

South Coast Medical Service Aboriginal Corporation OOHC (in partnership with MacKillop) T: 1300 791 677

Wandiyali T: (02) 4957 5900