Protective behaviours

When my kids were little I went along to a protective behaviours workshop and found myself deeply impacted by the value and significance of the event. Due to my understanding now of the non-violent communication model I see that was because it aligned to some of my highest values, being self-agency and communication. It is my wish that all children learn the masterful art of understanding their needs and taking the appropriate measures to have them met, unconditionally. I also began to understand that when children are exposed to the language and concepts that align with the teachings of protective behaviours, their journey of empowerment begins. Making them aware of what safety feels like in the body and in the right circumstances providing a contrast, gives children lived experience - a baseline they can come home to. The daycare centre where my children were going at the time offered the new release of the book, Only For Me https://www.dewfallbooks.com.au/shop/product/94978/only-for-me-picture-book/ and this is when the safety team concept was introduced to our family. A visual and verbal representation of who else in their lives can show up for them. It was a pivotable learning moment for me to widen the circle. Parenting is hard work, when primary caregivers are at capacity children need to know their safety team are available to them to connect with and help them navigate whatever is alive. As a parent or carer, can we discern what other adults in our children's lives bring them physical and emotional protection, comfort and understanding? Can the privilege of trust be transferred within your own social circle or wider community?

"Can Fletcher be on our safety team, mum?" Our dog. Bless, yes but no.

When I was introduced to Interoception Curriculum I was blown away. I was able to link the offerings of Kelly's work not only to my role as an OTA in the teachings of emotional regulation but also to my parenting life. What a gift! Digestible content that supports my highest value and provides the language to begin the process of self-advocacy. I was sold and thus inspired to create a business around developing these skills as early as possible. It remains my passion today.

Protective behaviours through the ages can also look like understanding of personal space, how and when to say no, what secrets should be shared, body awareness, bullying, cyber safety, problem solving, strategies for staying safe and tricky people. In my understanding every school or early learning service has an internal or external source in place to educate families on the basics of protective behaviours. I see it at a deeper level but feel these groups provide practical, factual and relevant information to inform parents.

I'd like to leave here some relevant links that I value and hope you might too:

https://www.secca.org.au It brings me such joy to see these places collaborating to serve not only the neurodiverse community but also mainstream delivering its resources and workshops so that everyone can benefit.

https://www.kiddclinic.com.au/group-therapy I am enjoying the offerings Kidd Clinic are delivering to the public. A thriving hub of evidence based information supporting relationships and inclusion.

Perth Kids Hub have created a free downloadable list of Paeditricians and Psychiatrists under their resources tab, find it here https://perthkidshub.com.au

Shout out to Western Australian recovery college for providing safe havens for our older kiddos offering gentle reminders of light and love in times of need https://www.warecoverycollege.org.au/courses. That one is a personal fave.

I hope you enjoyed reading today's blog. See you next time.

• https://www.education.sa.gov.au/parents-and-families/curriculum-and-learning/early-years/keeping-safe-child-protection-curriculum-information-parents-and-carers