Six out of ten Aboriginal children are vulnerable in at least one of the Australian Early Development Domains (physical health and wellbeing; social competence; emotional maturity; language and cognitive skills; communication skills and general knowledge).These domains are closely linked to predictors of good adult health, education and social outcomes. Vulnerability in the domains impacts on a child’s cognitive development, school readiness and general health and wellbeing.
While these figures have improved slightly in recent years, there is still an enormous amount of work to be done to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children have the best chance of a healthy, successful life. There is clear evidence that physical activity can assist in all developmental domains, as regular exercise is known to improve overall health and wellbeing and help develop lifelong, healthy habits.
We have been fortunate to have been involved with Aboriginal communities in the Kimberley and Northern Territory for over ten years. At their core, our programs within these communities aim to improve overall health and wellbeing, including social and emotional health. We work with a range of community-based, Aboriginal organisations and seek input and guidance regarding community needs, and are committed to creating sustainable, locally run community programs.
Recent funding from Save the Children has enabled us to train two young Aboriginal youth workers in Kununurra. Working with Bluearth Physical Activity officer, June Blair, the youth workers are running an after-school care program that uses physical activity to support fine motor skills, literacy, numeracy, concentration, cooperation and self-governance; all essential skills for school success.
The youth workers are receiving training to deliver fun, movement-based activities to primary school students. Peer education has proven to be a successful health promotion approach within Aboriginal communities. Teaching or sharing information, values and behaviour in this this way educates others who may share similar backgrounds or life experiences.
The youth workers will contribute their own skills, interests and abilities to their sessions, incorporating music and dance. As they gain confidence within the sessions, they will take on more responsibility, and work towards delivering their own movement sessions that support learning and development.
