Wellbeing of Martu Children (Jiji Program)

The Jiji Program supports Martu children to develop the skills, confidence and wellbeing they need to thrive at home, school and within their communities.

Jiji, meaning children in Martu language, provides culturally informed speech therapy and occupational therapy services that support literacy, behaviour, regulation and social skills. The program works alongside families, schools and health services to help children achieve positive developmental and learning outcomes.

Delivered by PAMS in partnership with WACHS, allied health teams and community partners, Jiji uses a trauma-informed and community-led approach that reflects the needs, strengths and aspirations of Martu children and their families.

Several health professionals interacting with a group of aboriginal children.

Your Jiji Support Journey

1. Identify a Need

A child may be identified by their family, school or health team as needing support with literacy, behaviour, regulation, communication or social skills.

2. Connect With the Jiji Team

Families can talk with their local clinic or school to discuss concerns and access support through the program.

3. Receive Tailored Support

Children can access speech therapy, occupational therapy and regulation support based on their individual needs and goals.

4. Grow and Thrive

Ongoing support helps children build confidence, strengthen skills and achieve positive outcomes at home, school and in their community.

Our Jiji Program Services:

Speech therapy services
Occupational therapy services
Literacy development support
Behaviour support
Social skills development
Trauma-informed regulation support
Regulation tools for schools
Trauma kits for communities
Support for children experiencing learning and development challenges
Training for local Martu women as Jiji Support Workers
Training for local Martu women as Regulation Buddies
Support for families, schools and community services

Supporting Martu Children and Communities

The Jiji Program brings together allied health professionals, local schools, health services and families to support children's learning, development and wellbeing. A key focus of the program is building local capability through training opportunities for Martu women as Jiji Support Workers and Regulation Buddies.

Services are delivered across Jigalong, Punmu, Kunawarritji and Parnngurr, helping children access support within their own communities while strengthening connections between families, schools and health services.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Jiji Program

Who can access the Jiji Program?

The program is available to Martu children living in Jigalong, Punmu, Kunawarritji and Parnngurr who would benefit from support with literacy, behaviour, regulation, communication or social skills.

What support does the Jiji Program provide?

The program provides speech therapy, occupational therapy and trauma-informed regulation support to help children strengthen literacy, behaviour, learning and social skills.

Can my child's teacher or school recommend them for the program?

Yes. Children may be identified by schools, health teams or families as needing additional support. Schools can work with families and the Jiji team to help connect children with the program.

What is regulation support?

Regulation support helps children develop strategies to manage emotions, behaviours and responses in everyday situations at school, home and within their community.

Who delivers the Jiji Program?

The program is delivered by PAMS in partnership with WACHS, allied health teams and community partners, and is co-designed and evaluated with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).

How long does the Jiji Program run for?

The current program is funded by DPIRD and runs from 2025 to 2027.

Understanding and Managing Emotions

Strong emotions are a normal part of growing up, but children and young people may sometimes need support to understand what they’re feeling and find healthy ways to manage it.

The Jiji Program helps children build emotional awareness and develop practical skills to express their feelings, manage big emotions and respond to challenging situations.

How can we help you today?...