2 June 2015 | General Interest
A report examining the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children has been published, showing how early childhood experiences can impact on later life, and providing policy makers with information about ‘what matters’ and ‘what works’ for producing improved outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
Footprints in Time is the fifth publication in a series of reports produced to correspond with each wave of data collection. The report observes the life of the child, family life, as well as the influence of culture and community.
“This report discusses the high levels of support [primary carers] are providing in their children’s early schooling through connections with the schools and encouragement through learning activities. Parental engagement with school is shown to have a positive association with higher literacy scores. Schools are also providing assistance with programs to ensure Indigenous children feel comfortable in the school environment.”
Chair of the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children Steering Committee, Professor Mick Dodson AM, highlights the human element of the study and its importance:
“In reading a report like this it is easy to forget that the numbers equate to real people. It is my fervent hope the quotes and stories from the children, parents, teachers and the fieldwork team included in this report help readers relate successes and adversity discussed in this report to real people.”
To download a copy of the report visit the Department of Social Services website.
