Finding hidden stories of strength and skills: Using the Tree of Life with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children features Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander practitioners describing the ways in which they are using the Tree of Life with children and young people in a range of different communities.

Featuring Che Stow, Carolynanha Johnson-Koolmatrie, and members of the Drop the Rock Team from Cape York , this DVD will be of assistance to anyone who wishes to use the Tree of Life in their work, and especially to those working in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander contexts.

This approach involves children drawing their roots (where they come from), their ground (where they live and what they do each day), their trunk (special skills and abilities), their branches (hopes and dreams), their leaves (special people), and their fruit (gifts). Groups of children then join their individual trees into a collective 'Forest of Life'.

Once the forest is created, it is then possible to collectively discuss some of the 'storms' that affect forests and the lives of children. The workshop also enables children to speak about the special skills that trees, animals, and children use to respond to the 'Storms of Life'. Finally, a ceremony is held in which children, parents, and other community members celebrate children's skills and knowledge.

This heartwarming and practical DVD features a range of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers describing their use of the Tree of Life approach. It also includes a 'Tree of Life' children's song by Hayley Miller.

This DVD is in PAL/region 4 format, and will also play on 'all region' DVD players in other areas.