Celebrating families in East Arnhem

National Families Week celebrates the vital role that families play in teaching, supporting and nurturing children as they grow up. At Anglicare NT, we work with families across the Territory to help create the best possible environments and communities for children.

In Darwin, Katherine and Yurrwi, we empower parents and carers to be their child’s first teacher through the Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY). In Ngukurr and Numbulwar, remote playgroups provide culturally appropriate, fun, play-based developmental activities to families with young children. The Communities for Children program encourages and facilitates cross-sector collaboration with other service providers in the Alice Springs and East Arnhem regions.

Despite recent physical and regional distancing requirements around COVID-19, families have continued to engage with our children’s programs. Our resourceful remote East Arnhem Children’s Services staff have been leaders in their own communities at adapting to these challenging times.

To celebrate Easter, staff in Yurrwi delivered packs to families containing activities for children, fresh fruit and antibacterial soaps. Staff made the soaps themselves from Eucalyptus and Lemon Myrtle to encourage good hygiene practices in the workplace and within family homes. Playgroup activities, like colouring-in totems, were also delivered.

Instead of the usual indoor gatherings, families have enjoyed sharing outdoor activities while maintaining physical distancing. In Numbulwar, the Saltwater Playgroup held a traditional weaving workshop to celebrate Mother’s Day. In Ngukurr, the Freshwater Playgroup enjoyed a trip to Wilton River to take part in craft activities.

Staff make Eucalyptus and Lemon Myrtle soap for families.