Christine’s role as a Child & Family Practitioner helps her create a village for families

The adage “it takes a village to raise a child” is one that many in the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector are familiar with. 

This expression acknowledges that there is a need to surround children with a number of caring adults who have different talents, skills and achievements in order to support them to grow, but also in order to support the adults to learn and grow from one another. 

For Child & Family Practitioner Christine Harvey, who works at The Benevolent Society’s Gracemere-Mount Morgan Early Years Place, the chance to be part of the ‘village’ for families at the service is a special one. 

Having joined The Benevolent Society in April 2022, she uses her skills and talents to not only support children to thrive, but families too. 

“Each and every day is varied,” she explained. “The expression ‘if you do what you love, you won’t work a day in your life’ is a reality I experience. 

The most rewarding aspect of her role is welcoming new families to the service, and helping them gain a sense of belonging, as well as watching them grow in confidence in their parenting, and going on to share that with others.

Knowing the impact early childhood experiences have on adulthood is what drew her to a career in the early childhood sector. 

“In my previous role as a Kindergarten Teacher, it was imperative for me to be able to assist children in having positive adult role models, ignite the love of learning and offer a sense of belonging within the classroom,” she said. 

“Moving into the career path of a Child & Family Practitioner was a natural progression for me, as I found myself often supporting families through my previous role but I knew there was more I could do.” 

While her role requires her to juggle many responsibilities, such as preparing for playgroup, networking with other community organisations, attending meetings or providing support to families, each day brings a chance to meaningfully connect with others. 

‌”Every day I’m blessed with watching families grow in confidence and capability,” she said.

“Seeing family’s reactions when they are feeling seen and heard and that they are respected for who they are is an amazing experience…just watching families walk out that little bit taller than how they arrived.”

For more information about the Benevolent Society’s Early Years Centres, click here or call 1800 236 762.