Keep me in the loop

Children and young people need information about what is happening to them and their families. They also require opportunities to share their views and needs in a safe environment.

Involving children and young people in decision-making processes is both validating and empowering for them. It can also help services improve the quality and responsiveness of assistance that is provided to individuals and families as they are more aware of their needs and wishes. The way that children are engaged, the information that is provided to them and their involvement in decision making is shaped by their developmental needs, their wishes and their capacities.

Booklet: Keep Me in the Loop

This booklet provides information and tips about keeping children informed about what is going on, why it's important to see, hear and act upon what kids have to say, and resources and tools for communicating with children.

Booklet: Keep Me in the Loop (PDF, 3.4MB)

Poster: Keep Me in the Loop (PDF, 564KB)

Tools

Some of the tools from the Kids Central Toolkit are also available to download below, including:

• Tool 5A: Talking Cards (PDF, 261KB)
  Can be used to break the ice and build rapport, to break up discussions, and to get conversations started.
• Tool 5B: Clay Faces (PDF, 210KB)
  Can be used to help children talk about their feelings in a non-threatening and child-directed way.
• Tool 5C: What I Want (PDF, 227KB)
  Can be used to develop a quick understanding of a child's immediate needs, and to invite children into a conversation about their needs and wishes.
• Tool 5D: Responding to Kids' Requests (PDF, 276KB)
  Can be used to ensure children understand you are taking their needs and wishes seriously.
• Tool 5E: Wanted Posters (PDF, 220KB)
  Can be used to talk to children about the kinds of workers they want and how they want to be supported.
• Tool 5F: Rights and Not-Quite Rights (PDF, 291KB)
  Can be used to help kids understanding what their rights are in relation to talking to adults.
• Tool 5H-L: On Target (PDF, 468KB)
  Can be used to help children and families articulate their feelings, track their progress and plan for the future.