- Acknowledge the child’s cultural journey and be aware that the child may not have a lot of understanding of their identity. Always approach identity questions with sensitivity. There may be some shame and the child/young person may be uncomfortable talking about their family and culture – take it slow and be led by the child or young person
- In consultation with the child/young person’s care team always approach identity with a age, stage and developmentally appropriate lens – have realistic expectations
- Use VACCA’s Child’s Voice Toolkit as a Guide
- Remember a child/young person’s cultural plan isn’t something that should happen in one sitting, and it is not something that is formed from a structured question and answer session. Be creative and allow a naturally flowing, organic process to occur – allow your observations and conversations to help create a meaningful cultural story to evolve for the child/young person
- Build relationships and trust with the child/young person – spend time, build rapport, listen attentively and observe
- Always acknowledge the child’s family, heritage and culture in a positive, strengths based way that empowers the child to feel proud of their identity and culture.
- Gain as much understanding and knowledge as possible about the child’s family, culture and identity – join the child or young person on their journey, and help them with their research and knowledge exploration, for example you could research their mob together on the internet.
- Engage with the child/young person in a safe, child-friendly space wherever possible – for some young people this may be outside or at a local Aboriginal organisation.
- Always explain your role and the importance/significance of the cultural Plan. Give them lots of information about the process and how it will affect them and allow them to feel empowered and drive the process as much as possible.
- Understand and be aware of the impact of trauma as some children and young people have been in unsafe environments and it will take time to trust you. Also, be aware that discussing family and identity can highlight a child’s loss and bring feelings of grief, so it’s important to allow children to have their emotions and consultation with services such as the VACCA Aboriginal Children’s Healing team are essential as well as a care team approach always.
- Always consult with Senior Advisors Cultural Planning and other Aboriginal Community Organisations and Elders for further advice and guidance
