KidsAreFirst children’s programs – Banana Splitz and MAD are designed to give children and young people an opportunity to:
- be supported
- adjust to separation and divorce
- express their thoughts and feelings
- let their families know what they need.
Children and young people meet other people going through similar experiences and learn some new skills to cope with family changes.
The Banana Splitz and MAD group programs are full of fun and exciting activities designed to give the children and young people a safe, non-confrontational way to explore their family experiences. Both programs include games, stories, craft, and music in an age-appropriate manner.
We also use a variety of therapeutic techniques in order to open up discussion and encourage growth.
The KidsAreFirst programs are typically presented in two-hour units over 4–6 consecutive weeks depending on the program, location, and need.
The program is run by two facilitators and additional support people. The facilitators direct the program whilst support people offer supervised assistance to facilitators and children.
All staff working with children are required to undertake safety checks in accordance with the AnglicareSA policy to ensure that a child friendly and child safe environment is maintained at all times.
Short term, individual counselling is also offered to children and young people where necessary.
Who can access the service
The KidsAreFirst children’s groups – Banana Splitz and Making A Difference (MAD) are for children and young people between the ages of 5 and 17 whose parents have separated.
Banana Splitz is for children 5-12 years old and MAD is for young people 13-17. Please note that we require young children to have completed at least three school terms before attending.
Intake interviews are available at Hindmarsh and group sessions are held at Hindmarsh, Cowandilla, Elizabeth, and Christies Beach.
Banana Splitz and MAD can also be offered as a collaborative project with community centres and schools in metropolitan and regional South Australia.
Steps on how to access the service
Before attending Banana Splitz, a case manager (and facilitator of the program) will meet with you at an intake and assessment interview. This interview is to determine if the program is the most suitable for your child/ren as well as help us gain an understanding of how to best work with your child/ren. This session will last for approximately one and a half hours and is not suitable for children of any age to attend.
Banana Splitz requires both parents to consent to their child or young person’s participation in the group. If this does not suit your current situation please contact us.
The fee is $50 per child, or $20 with a Concession card. If fees are a barrier to attendance, please discuss this with the Case Manager during your intake interview.
