Purpose and ObjectiveThis initiative aims to establish early foundations for gender equality and body safety awareness among kindergarten-aged children in the Ovens and Murray region. Grounded in the principles of family violence early intervention and prevention, the program seeks to challenge gender stereotypes, foster respectful relationships, and equip children with age-appropriate knowledge about body safety and consent. By embedding these values early, we aim to contribute to long-term cultural change that reduces gender-based violence.
Program DeliveryThe program consists of 3 interactive 30-minute sessions conducted at local kindergartens. Using engaging tools such as puppets, songs, illustrated books, and visual aids, facilitators deliver key messages in a playful, non-threatening manner appropriate to the developmental stage of the children. The sessions will cover themes such as respect for all genders, recognising and expressing emotions, understanding personal boundaries, and seeking help from trusted adults. Each kindergarten is provided with a resource pack—including books, posters, and visual prompts—to support educators in reinforcing the messages beyond the initial visit. Children are also provided with a take home goodie bag with resources for the children and parents to use.
Impact and AssessmentImpact is gauged through educator feedback, observations of children’s engagement during sessions, and follow-up discussions with kindergarten staff on how the messages are being integrated into daily practice. Educators are encouraged to share examples of how children recall and apply the concepts over time, providing qualitative insights into the program’s effectiveness.
Lessons LearnedThe program recognises that early childhood education settings are pivotal in shaping social norms. Sessions are tailored to meet varying levels of existing understanding, with flexibility to adapt to cultural and community needs. One anticipated learning is that ongoing reinforcement—through supplied resources and educator modelling—is crucial for lasting impact.
Engagement of Lived ExperienceWhile direct sharing of lived experience is not appropriate for this age group, the program content has been informed by consultation with family violence survivor advocates, educators, and child development specialists, ensuring messages are sensitive, inclusive, and evidence-based.
By embedding respect, equality, and body safety in early learning, this program plants the seeds for a safer, more respectful next generation.
Miranda Cousins
Senior Practitioner Family Violence Child Safety Team, Upper Murray Family Care
Miranda has worked in the welfare field with children and families for over 15 years. She is currently the Senior Practitioner in the Family Violence Child Safety Team at UMFC.
Her previous work includes work in Changing Futures, providing intensive therapeutic parenting support, work as a Child FIRST and Child FIRST Outreach practitioner and time spent working with homeless young people with complex needs.
Miranda’s passion includes developing and facilitating trainings and group work and a focus on rural and remote communities.
Alyshia Klein
Family Service Practitioner, Upper Murray Family Care
Alyshia has worked in the family violence field for over 9 years, working closely with victim survivors. Alyshia is currently a Practitioner in the Family Services Team at UMFC. Her previous work includes Family Violence Child Safety Practitioner, intensive crisis case management, refuge management, MARAM assessments, and being a Coordinator of the Personal Safety Initiative program in Victoria. Alyshia is passionate about education around family violence and sexual assault and hopes that by doing these education sessions there are better outcomes in the future.
