Queensland Child Protection Week (6 – 12 Sept 2026) is a timely reminder for communities, professionals, and families to work together so that every single child feels safe, heard, and valued. The initiative aims to raise the profile of vital issues like child abuse prevention, education, and family support, creating a coordinated, statewide focus to protect our most vulnerable.
As parents, opening up conversations about personal safety, big emotions, and bodily autonomy can sometimes feel daunting. However, sharing this information early is one of the most powerful ways to protect your child.
That is where the magic of a good book comes in. Reading together creates a safe, cozy, and non-threatening space to explore big topics. Through stories, children learn the language they need to express their feelings, understand their rights, and identify safe adults when they need help.
Children’s books to spark vital conversations
To help you navigate these important chats at home, we have compiled an essential reading list perfect for QLD Child Protection Week. These titles cover everything from managing anxieties and understanding children’s rights to body safety and resilience.
By embedding these stories into your regular bedtime or reading routines, you are giving your children the ultimate gift: the confidence to speak up.
What’s Worrying You?
By Molly Potter
A brilliant book that helps children understand and articulate their daily worries and anxieties.
The Last Chip
By Duncan Beedie
A heartwarming tale that touches on empathy, kindness, and understanding the struggles of others.
The Bare Naked Book
By Kathy Stinson
A classic, straightforward look at the human body that celebrates all body types in a natural, positive way.
The ABCs of Children’s Rights
Children’s Picture Book
An accessible introduction to the fundamental rights every child has to be safe, educated, and cared for.
Some Parts Are Not for Sharing
By Julie K. Federico
A gentle, age-appropriate tool for introducing the concept of body boundaries to very young children.
My Body! What I Say Goes! (Kiah’s Edition)
By Jayneen Sanders
An empowering book that teaches children about bodily autonomy, consent, and the power of saying no.
My Body Belongs to Me
By Jill Starishevsky
A clear and protective story designed to teach children how to recognize and report unsafe touches.
I Can Play It Safe
By Alison Feigh
A practical guide that equips kids with safety rules for both the physical world and digital spaces without inducing fear.
Everyone’s Got a Bottom
By Tess Rowley
A gentle, light-hearted story written specifically to help parents teach body safety to young children.
Whoever You Are
By Mem Fox
An iconic Australian book celebrating diversity, reminding children that no matter our differences, our hearts feel the same.
A Terrible Thing Happened
By Margaret M. Holmes
A vital resource for children who have witnessed or experienced trauma, helping them process difficult memories.
A Safe Place for Rufus
By Jill Seeney
A touching story about a dog finding security after a difficult past, perfect for discussing safety and stability with children.
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