Name: Kathryn
Job title: Early childhood co-ordinator
How long have you worked here: 14 years
Please tell us a bit about your job: Our early-childhood centre (ECC) is a fully self-contained, purpose-built facility that supports all programs within South Coastal Health and Community Services and Babbingur Mia South Coastal Aboriginal services.
ECC is run by early-childhood educators with over 40 years’ experience in working with children from vulnerable families, children at risk, (or with a) history of trauma, so we are able to offer non-judgmental advice and support with parenting and child behaviours, including feeding, sleeping, supporting positive behaviour etc.
Staff are qualified facilitators in the Circle of Security parenting program, protective behaviours, mental health first aid, mandatory reporting of child abuse, understanding perpetrators of child sexual abuse, working with sexually abused children and their families, and cultural awareness.
As the ECC coordinator, I’m trained in assessment and treatment planning, using the COS approach, and I facilitate the COS 8-week parenting program.
The ECC facilitates an adapted Circle of Security Parenting program named Circle Support Group. This group has been designed by ECC staff so parents can extend their knowledge and improve relationships with their children whilst in our ECC. This brings alive the learning and knowledge from the Circle of Security program. This program has been internationally recognised by the creators of Circle of Security.
ECC staff build strong relationships with parents and become aware of their needs. Therefore, we are able to refer them to other services within SCHCS and the community. This offers more holistic care.
What do you love about it: All of the above, early intervention by improving attachment and relationships. But most of all, seeing parents fall in love with their children
And what do you find challenging: The frustration of the system – governments and funders are reactive not proactive, therefore early intervention is very underfunded and often overlooked.
What puts a smile on your face at work: Seeing the work we do positively change a family’s trajectory and, of course, Trish’s group food.
What do you love most about this organisation: All the amazing work we do.
What is your birthday wish for SCHCS: More funding, but that’s what everyone says.