Raising Respect brochure
March 2023

Raising Respect
As parents and carers, we want our children to be safe, connected and free to grow as their unique selves. 
To make this happen, we need to learn how to challenge disrespect and gender stereotypes.
We can all make a difference. Here are three ways to help:

Support children to develop as themselves 
•	Encourage them to explore all their interests, whether these match gender stereotypes or not
•	Share a wide range of media, role models and opportunities for play
•	Start conversations about stereotypes, ask questions, invite curiosity and suggest alternatives
•	Show your child you appreciate it when they do something brave, kind or inquisitive 

Help children navigate media and peer relationships
•	Support them to develop skills to think critically about what they see and hear in media, marketing, online and in person
•	Remember how important belonging is to your child (to family, friend groups and communities)
•	Make it clear it’s not OK for anyone to be disrespectful about someone’s gender or sexuality
•	If this brings up difficult feelings for you, acknowledge them and consider seeking support 

Challenge stereotypes in the places where your child learns and plays
•	If someone is using stereotypes, ask questions: “Why does it have to be that way?” “What do you mean?”
•	If you hear someone being disrespectful, speak up or show your disapproval, if you feel safe to do so
•	As much as you can, share different kinds of work, responsibilities and fun in your family so everyone is involved
•	Connect with people who are also trying to make a difference at your child’s school or sports club

Learn more here: [insert URL for stand-alone webpage]

Additional resources and support

Level Playground
Information about gender equity, safe and respectful relationships, and breaking down gender stereotypes – and how to apply it all in everyday life https://www.levelplayground.org.au/ 

Because Why
Support and practical guidance in challenging gender stereotypes https://www.becausewhy.org.au/ 

Parentline ACT
Telephone counselling by trained volunteers for parents and carers in the Australian Capital Territory. Ph: (02) 6287 3833 Mon–Fri, 9am–4pm (except public holidays). http://parentlineact.org.au/ 

Triple P Parenting
Free, evidence-based online course with tools to support your child’s development, grow closer and solve problems https://www.triplep-parenting.net.au/ 

Sexual Health and Family Planning ACT 
Sexual Health and Family Planning ACT (SHFPACT) provides a range of relationships and sexuality education courses for children and young people with disability and their families https://www.shfpact.org.au/index.php/counselling/ndis-counselling 

Beyond Blue
Free, anonymous support for anxiety and depression – phone and online counselling 24 hours per day, 7 days a week, plus online forums and peer support www.beyondblue.org.au 

Blue Knot 
Helpline and support service for adults who experienced childhood trauma, and people who are supporting them. Ph: 1300 657 380 9am-5pm, 7 days a week including public holidays, email helpline@blueknot.org.au or visit https://blueknot.org.au/