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Welcoming Our Little Ones: What is your family’s story?

Nunkuwarrin Yunti & Emerging Minds, Australia, September 2025

Related to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social and emotional wellbeing, Parenting

Cover of Welcoming Our Little OnesTo listen to this guide, use the ‘Read content’ button above.

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Our journeys of learning

Lots of us are still learning about our cultures and where we come from. That is OK. We hope you might find an idea or two in this guide to help you on your cultural journey.

‘When I came to the realisation that I had grown up without my culture, it made me feel displaced. By taking the time needed to acknowledge it, I was able to talk to others about it.’ – Geneva, mum

We are all learning, one small step at a time. Lots of people are on this journey.

Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families are doing well in their lives, and where things are tough, they are getting through. The fact you are here reading this now means you’re finding your way. You are learning about connecting to culture and wellbeing for your child and family.

For lots of families, invasion and colonisation have disconnected us from culture, Country, kinship and Ancestors. Because of this, we may not have had the same opportunity as others in this country.

Many parents are struggling with housing, jobs, money, school, racism and health care. Parents often fear child protection, and services might use language that is confusing or makes them feel unsafe.

What is your story of survival and resilience?

We know that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families have stories of survival and resilience. Stories about times when they got through, even if they faced big challenges.

You might like to have a think about a few of these questions, or talk about them with your family or a trusted person.

  • What are the strengths and skills within your family?
  • Where did these strengths come from?
  • What supports you or your family to get through tough times?
  • What cultural practices does your family use or would like to use?
  • What are your hopes and dreams for your family?

What keeps your spirit strong?

It is important to think about the good things we have in our life and not let the bad things that may be happening get all the attention. Check out the following tools, the Stronger You wheel and the Stay Strong care plan.

If this is hard to do by yourself, you can ask a worker to help you. These tools can help you set some goals and remind you of the things and people who keep you strong.

What’s next? Choose from:

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