Families, Press, Youth

Learning, friendship and resilience with Queer Family Sprouts

Written byAlex Lally
Published on17 Jun, 2025
Queer Family Sprouts program participants wearing masks in front of a rainbow background

Summary

Sprouts at the Queer Family Farmhouse in Mullumbimby was a recipient of the Resilient Kids Youth Participation Fund. The program helped queer and questioning children aged 8-12 find their peers and foster early resilience.

Celebrating a year of learning, friendship and resilience with the Queer Family Sprouts program!

Sprouts at the Queer Family Farmhouse in Mullumbimby was a recipient of the Resilient Kids Youth Participation Fund. The program helped queer and questioning children aged 8-12 find their peers and foster early resilience.

Improved social and emotional wellbeing

The Sprouts program provided participants with Queer-affirming experiences and opportunities to connect with their peers. This fostered belonging, created friendships and reduced isolation.

Enhanced self-esteem and confidence

Through creative activities and group discussions, participants were empowered and provided avenues for self-expression.

Strengthened family bonds

Through the involvement of parents, carers and siblings, the program provided opportunities for improved communication and understanding.

Increased resilience

Participants took part in group discussions and workshops that equipped them with copy strategies, problem-solving skills, and a strong support network.

Improved parent and carer support networks

Parents met, shared stories and discussed concerns, enabling them to develop networks with others whose experiences mirror their own.

Feedback from parents was positive, with many expressing that they felt welcome and included, connected with other parents and joy in seeing young people connected in an inclusive community.

Impact

Queer Family Sprouts Infographic
Sprouts program 2024-25

 

  • Parents and children both felt significantly better and were highly satisfied after attending a Sprout event.
  • Words and phrases used on both post-program and post-event feedback forms were overwhelmingly positive, with 100% of responses including positive, emotive words and gratitude.
  • Common feedback phrases included “joy”, “fun,” “happy”, “supported,” “welcome”, “accepted,” “included,” “safe”, “connection/connected”, “excited”.
  • 100% of parents wanted to share contact details with other parents and attend Sprouts in the future

Queer Family continues to help children and their families build resilience, create community and ensure that LGBTQIA+ people don’t face isolation in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales, Australia.

Learn more about the Youth Participation Fund >>