Be part of a national week

CHILDREN do best when life is on an even keel and their parents have the support they need.

When we are kind to parents, support family-friendly policies and build connected communities, we’re all helping to give Australia’s children the best start in life.

National Child Protection Week is all about celebrating the many ways — big and small — that everyone in the community can make a difference in the life of a child.

We can look at parenting as being a bit like sailing a boat: it takes skill and practice, anyone can encounter rough waters from time to time and we can all do our bit to help build the safe harbours and lighthouses that all families need.

All members of the community can play a part in building safe harbours for children by doing a multitude of things, including:

■ Taking time out to listen to what children and young people have to say

■ Being kind and supportive to parents

■ Being friendly and including their families in our communities

■ Speaking up if we see something that is not good for children

■ Thinking about how all decisions affect children and families

■ Advocating for all parents to have easy access to the support they need.

This National Child Protection Week (September 1 — 7), there are lots of resources to help people get involved with the campaign. To get started, visit napcan.org.au to:

■ Pledge your support (and add your logo to our website)

■ Download posters and tip sheets

■ Organise information sessions for your staff

■ Run craft activities for children

■ Engage your local community

■ List your events or find events to attend

■ Share on social media