Using the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children to explore how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children grow up strong

This presentation covers the topic of health and birthing. Using data from the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children (LSIC) (Wave 1) the paper examines the perspectives of the LSIC Parent 1s (primarily mothers) about their health and wellbeing and the birth of their child. The analysis explores the dimensions of a positive and healthy birthing experience for Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander mothers and how this experience helps to grow strong children/strong families/strong communities. The paper also explores how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and their children negotiate post-birth activities such as breast feeding and diet. The paper then develops its findings to consider how the results from these analyses might better inform policy within the child health and maternity sectors.