Play School presenters brighten up Children’s Day for Western Sydney families

Cast members from popular children’s program Play School joined families in Western Sydney recently to celebrate National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day.

“4 August is used to mark the birthdays of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were taken from their families, the Stolen Generations,” said NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar.

“(The day) provides an opportunity to honour and acknowledge the rich cultural heritage and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, and promotes cultural pride and identity, reinforcing the importance of preserving and valuing their traditions, cultures and languages.”

“By understanding their cultural heritage, children will gain a deeper understanding of where they come from, traditions, and their place within their community and the broader world.”

Gathering in celebration of community, culture and connection, the NSW Department of Education’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait early education and care team and Kimberwalli co-hosted the event last Friday in Whalan, on Darug land.

In recognition of this year’s National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day theme ‘Little Voices, Loud Futures’, the event celebrated children through music, dance, art, storytelling and cultural activities, connecting families and communities with local health and early childhood service providers.

Play School presenter and Wiradjuri and Ngunnawal man Luke Carroll was the event emcee, leading attendees through a variety of activities which included the Play School Live in Concert show, puppets and face painting.

“In early education we have a unique opportunity to make a real difference to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, and I am looking forward to connecting with and listening to local families,” said NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car.

“Our vision is that all Aboriginal children in NSW can access quality early childhood education and are supported to embrace their culture and identity for a strong start to lifelong learning.”

“We are committed to delivering our First Steps strategy, which aims to ensure the best educational outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged birth to five years.”

Learn more about Children’s Day here. Image shows NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar with children at the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day event in western Sydney.