Frequently Asked Questions.
What is Agreement F.I.R.S.T?
Agreement F.I.R.S.T is a consent card game for children created by Agreement Works to help normalise discussions around consent. Our goal is to make consent as second nature as brushing your teeth, wearing a seatbelt, or deciding what’s for dinner.
We work on the premise that consent is a life skill. This game brings joy to a conversation that can sometimes feel challenging. By collecting the key ingredients for clear, respectful agreements, players develop an understanding of key consent skills—because without agreement, there is no true consent.
Who is Agreement Works?
Agreement Works is a small Australian social enterprise dedicated to helping parents, caregivers, educators, schools, and—most importantly—children understand and practice consent in everyday life.
Why is learning about consent so important?
Understanding consent builds healthy relationships, personal boundaries, and mutual respect. Research shows that young people often learn through modelling behaviours. Helping young people, caregivers and educators—develop consent skills early can have lasting positive effects.
How does Agreement Works teach consent?
We use engaging, age-appropriate tools—including interactive workshops, educational resources, and games like Agreement F.I.R.S.T—to teach consent concepts in ways that are fun, accessible, safe, and easy to understand.
Who is Agreement Works for?
Agreement Works is for everyone. Whether you're a parent looking to introduce consent conversations at home, a caregiver supporting children's understanding, an educator seeking curriculum resources, or a government body in need of expert-led training, we offer tailored tools and guidance to meet your specific needs.
Is consent just about sexual relationships?
No! Consent applies to everyday interactions, from sharing toys and giving hugs to digital communication and workplace boundaries. Teaching consent early helps individuals to navigate all kinds of social situations with confidence and respect.
How can parents and caregivers introduce consent at home?
Parents and caregivers can start by modelling consent in everyday choices. For example: "Would you like to give Aunty Sue a kiss goodbye or would you rather wave?”.
Reading to children is also a great way to introduce concepts. Visit our website for a list of books. Our resources and games help families make consent conversations comfortable and natural. Through play-based learning and real-life examples, we make it easier for parents and caregivers to discuss consent in a relaxed, engaging way—without too much awkwardness.
What should I do if a disclosure happens while using Agreement F.I.R.S.T.© ?
Agreement F.I.R.S.T.© is an educational resource, not a therapeutic one[1].
Its purpose is to help young people learn the language of consent and spark conversations in a fun way. At times, these conversations may lead someone to share personal experiences. Being prepared matters.
Responding thoughtfully to a disclosure helps keep communication open.
The way an adult responds to a disclosure can significantly influence whether a young person feels safe to speak again.
Agreement F.I.R.S.T.© aims to start conversations, not close them. Your response matters.
If a child or young person shares something difficult:
Stay calm and present. Your response sets the tone.
Thank them for telling you. Acknowledge the courage it takes to share.
Listen without probing for details. You don’t need the full story.
Believe and validate. Statements like “I’m really glad you told me”. Or “That shouldn’t have happened” can be supportive.
Avoid making promises you can’t keep, such as guaranteeing secrecy.
What to avoid:
Minimising or questioning their experience.
Rushing to “fix” things or offer advice straight away.
Asking leading or investigative questions.
Next steps:
Let them know support is available and they don’t have to manage this alone (see help numbers)
Follow your organisation’s child safety and reporting policies, or relevant legal obligations.
Where appropriate, help connect them with a safe adult or professional support service.
Discussing consent includes modelling how to listen, how to respond, and how to support safely.
[1] Agreement Works acknowledges appropriately trained and skilled therapists, counsellors, psychologists, group facilitators and support staff may use Agreement F.I.R.S.T in the course of their therapeutic practice.
However, it is primarily positioned as an educational resource designed to help young people learn the language of consent and spark conversations.
When should children start learning about consent?
It’s never too early! Young children watch those around them modelling consent. Young children can grasp simple concepts like asking before touching, respecting personal space, and understanding that “no” means “no.” As they grow, these early ‘lessons’ provide a strong foundation for more complex discussions.
We believe consent education should start early and be reinforced regularly.
Do you provide resources for schools and educators?
Yes! Agreement Works offers lesson plans, workshops, and professional training to help schools integrate consent education into their curriculum in a way that is both meaningful and engaging.
How can I get involved?
Whether you're an educator, parent, caregiver, policymaker, or advocate, you can help support consent awareness. Attend workshops, use our resources, and help spread the message in your community.
Where can I access your resources and games?
Some of our games, educational materials and details about upcoming workshops will be available online. Contact us directly for more information: info@agreementworks.com.au Tel 1800 071 250