Brisbane Half Day Workshop

Presenter: James Fraser from Complex Care

Topic: Impact of Stress, Trauma and Attachment on Child Development

This workshop has been designed to assist educators to develop a better understanding of how to support children with a history of relational trauma or attachment disruption. This training aims to simplify contemporary research, and through integration with practice wisdom, provide real hands-on strategies for supporting children's recovery and development

Biography James Fraser is a consultant therapist and facilitator with over 12 years experience in welfare and child protection services. Prior to joining Complex Care, James worked as a Therapeutic Specialist in out-of-home care programs and working with families in early intervention. James has undertaken professional training and membership with the Child Trauma Academy (CTA), founded and developed by Bruce D. Perry. James' counselling training includes Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) and a Diploma of Counselling. Prior to this, James has completed a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Master of Social Science (MSocSc).

Presenter: Aunty Sharron mirii Bell

Topic: NGAMA

As we walk with Yindyamarra - going softly, slowly, gently with love, honour and respect we acknowledge our past, present and future. Sharron mirii Bell will guide you on a beautiful journey - the making of NGAMA, an amazing heartfelt album honouring her late mother Iris Joan Lindh - nee Bell. Music has the ability to heal and transform as it weaves its magic within you, and around you. As we connect to NGAMA discover new ways to embrace and extend your  Cultural awareness with Sharron mirii Bell through song and dance.

Biography Sharron mirii Bell is a proud Gamilaraay Wiradyuri woman, and founder of Indigenous Insights since 2005, which focuses on Cultural Education and Well-being for children, families and educators, providing live concerts and performances, professional development, and early childhood teachings. As a First Nations woman, mother, Children's Rights Ambassador, singer songwriter, educator and children's entertainer, Sharron's passion shines through each and every song she has ever written and performed. She showers educators and children alike with her rich knowledge and love of her Culture, so we can all walk together creating an authentic, meaningful difference within every educational learning space.

Presenter: Dr Geraldine Harris

Topic: Becoming Trauma- responsive: linking place-based and relational pedagogies (EYLF 2.0) into everyday practice.

Relational sciences and the fields of Traumatology have emerged over the last few decades giving educators new insights into children’s brain development & behaviour. Research suggests that children’s wellbeing centres around feeling safe within their relationships with key adults. This session will explore the role of Early Life Adversity (ELA) and its impact on the developing brain and engage with relational and place-based pedagogies (EYLF, 2.0) to help support children’s wellbeing. The session will build on the concept of Trauma Informed Practices and will introduce the role of educators in creating Trauma-responsive Practices which can open the door to Early Life Opportunities (ELO) for children.  

Biography Geraldine brings 30 years of experience in early childhood leadership and management of place-based approaches, integrated services.  A social cartographer, her PhD in place-based leadership made visible the relationality that exists between the ecological, social and individual conditions ; and how these conditions impact children’s development, partnership health and leadership wellbeing within movements of collective action. As the Executive Director of the Pathways to Resilience, Geraldine combines her passion as an advocate for children’s rights, together with a neuro-informed approach to understanding child development & children’s wellbeing; and her belief that a collective approach is required, to enhance children’s wellbeing.