For us, respect means adapting the way we work for the needs of every individual, Sashi Ritchie shows us how.

For children it can be unsettling joining a brand new school and OSHC, made harder when there is a language barrier. As one team we focus on creating a space where each child feels respected, safe, welcome and understood. We have to think creatively, using visual aids to help with the routine, speaking calmly and clearly and gently encouraging communication on their terms. We celebrate their culture by teaching the other children words from their home language, inviting the family to share recipes and incorporate these into our program. Seeing children grow in confidence, start to speak some English and play happily with new friends is absolutely thrilling.  For me, respect is making sure every child feels seen, heard, and truly valued – and that’s exactly what we did, and always do, together.