A Note from Dr Michael Carr-Gregg:
“As an adolescent psychologist who has spent decades working with young people, I have seen firsthand the profound impact that environments can have on a child’s mental health, body image, confidence and identity. The performing arts, when delivered with care, creativity and integrity, can be an extraordinary source of joy, self-expression and resilience. But as the KidsPace Performing Arts Code of Practice makes abundantly clear, this sector also carries significant responsibility.
In a largely unregulated industry… there has never been a greater need for a clear, research-informed, child-centred framework to guide best practice. The KidsPace Code delivers exactly that.
What I particularly admire about this Code is that it does not stifle creativity. Rather, it protects the conditions under which creativity flourishes. True artistic development can only occur in environments where children feel safe, valued, respected, and free from pressures or expectations that do not belong in childhood.
The KidsPace Code is thoughtful, rigorous, and deeply aligned with contemporary child-safety standards and mental-health research. It empowers teachers, reassures parents, and, most importantly, strengthens the wellbeing of children and adolescents who participate in dance and the performing arts.
I strongly endorse the KidsPace Performing Arts Code of Practice. I encourage every studio, school, educator, and arts organisation to adopt it, and I would urge parents to seek out programs and providers that have made the commitment to become signatories.
This Code represents not just good practice, but the right practice. It raises the bar for the entire sector and helps ensure that every child’s artistic journey is one that builds resilience, confidence, creativity, and joy. In my view, it is an essential step forward in safeguarding the mental health and future wellbeing of young Australians.”
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg
Adolescent Psychologist
Camberwell Road Medical Practice / Think Health Specialists