Child-centred practice in child protection – part two  

In the second episode of this two-part series, Dr Carmela Bastian continues talking with child protection specialists Dr Amy Bromley (Policy and Advocacy Lead, Child and Family Focus SA), Arabella Stravolemos (social worker and child protection advocate) and Chloe Henderson (Senior Manager Children’s Services Partnerships, Relationships Australia SA).  

In discussing their approaches to child-centred practice, the specialists explore ways of genuinely prioritising children’s safety, emotional needs, wellbeing, voice and rights. They also describe their professional and lived experiences within the child protection system, providing case examples of practices that hold children at the centre of practice and policy. The episode includes an exploration of conversations with children that help to identify their hopes and preferences for professional engagement.

In this episode you will learn about:    

• how transparent practice can let children know about the process for working with them [4:37]  

• the importance of relationship skills with vulnerable children [7:02] 

• ways to demonstrate patience and empathy with parents who are experiencing adversity [14:32] 

• developing a sense of consistency, routine and structure with children so that they can develop confidence in their engagement with you [17:55] 

• the role that self-awareness plays for practitioners working with children and families [20:54] 

Related Emerging Minds resources  

Engaging with children (online course)  

Recognising and strengthening the stories of children in care (practice paper) 

Child-focused practice for complex problems (practice paper)