In 2007, the Children’s Advocate developed a set of eight Guiding Principles intended to address the need to integrate and enhance a Children and Youth First commitment within all aspects of our service provision. These principles also reflect the core beliefs and values that we advance in all aspects of our work with government ministries and agencies, as well as with child and youth service sectors and care providers. In response to a recommendation of our office, the Government of Saskatchewan adopted these principles in February 2009 as part of its plan to strengthen the province’s child welfare system. It is hoped that the Government of Saskatchewan will fulfill its commitment to our youngest citizens by using the Principles as a mandatory guide for child-serving ministries to examine current and new legislation, policy, practices and programming