Early Years Disaster Forum held in Far North Queensland

In Far North Queensland, natural disasters are more than a seasonal inconvenience – they’re a way of life. 

While adults are often mentally and physically prepared for floods and cyclones, children are often forgotten and ‘left unarmed’ for the emotional impact that these events have.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden outlined that there are approximately 20,000 children aged nine years and under in the Cairns region, and that disasters such as cyclones and flooding, can be confusing and frightening for the youngest residents.

“Children respond differently to these situations – some may seem more stressed, seek extra cuddles, or cry more than usual. Others may need reassurance and a safe space to express their feelings,” she said.

Recognising this, the Far North Queensland early years sector united for the Early Years Disaster Forum, a landmark event designed to connect local professionals with disaster impact experts to improve understanding of how to help children feel safe and empowered during natural disasters.

“Early Childhood providers are pivotal in providing children support in the lead up, during and post natural disasters. Today’s forum provides learning opportunities for the sector to develop strategies to best respond to the needs of children and their families during disasters,” the Mayor said.

In the lead up to the Forum, a group of four year olds gathered to read the Birdie’s Tree storybooks, one example of the innovative tools being used to build young children’s resilience during these challenging times.

The event also featured early learning staff sharing first-hand insights into the effects disasters can have on children in their care, and a disaster impact expert discussing the long-term implications for children and how the sector can respond.

The Forum was hosted by the Far North Early Childhood Network, Thriving Queensland Kids Partnership (TQKP) and Cairns Regional Council, with support from Mission Australia.

“We know that kids can experience significant impacts in the face of disasters and that these events are increasing in severity and frequency,” TQKP Partnership Officer Jacinta Perry said.

“This forum is about equipping the early years sector with the planning and tools needed to support kids and reduce those negative impacts effectively,” she said.

For Sarah Wilde, Chair of the Far North Early Childhood Network, the opportunity to coordinate a regional approach to disaster planning, uniting representatives from the early years sector is an exciting one.

“This collaboration guarantees that resources and support are consistently available across the region,” she said.