Research has shown that early intervention and support can make a significant difference in a child’s development. However, some families do not have access to the support services they need in the early stages of their child’s life.
Recognising this, the University of Wollongong’s (UOW) research institute will soon help bridge this gap through its Early Start program, which is extending its network into the broader community, links more families with early education supports
In the past 12 months there were more than 125,000 visitors to UOW’s Discovery Space, a purpose-built, hands-on learning space, and 2,300 children supported in engagement centres throughout regional and remote NSW.
The initiative is also making an impact in the community with research outcomes. Recent highlights include the development of World Health Organization guidelines for healthy eating and movement, the launch of a project that explores the development of learning and memory in babies, and the release of a series of apps that help educators track children’s learning, development and wellbeing.
Early Start’s volunteer and community programs coordinator, Matt Ball, is working with community groups to ensure no one misses out on early education and support.
“We target groups that face barriers – it may be financial, it could be discrimination, it could be social isolation or transport-related isolation,” Ball said.
“Last year we welcomed our third community playgroup, Rainbow Families.”
Rainbow Families playgroup member, Jasmin Lassilla, said she appreciates the opportunity to meet and support families like hers.
“I love having our playgroup at the Discovery Space. The support and interest from the staff and volunteers makes me confident it’s a safe, welcoming and inclusive place,” she said.
Early Start also links with organisations outside of the University, including Family Services Illawarra, Barnardos and Illawarra Aboriginal Cooperation to give parents and children a taste of the Discovery Space.
“I have a box full of tricks I take with me into the community,” Ball said.
“We’ll read a book about binoculars and let the kids make themselves a pair of binoculars. On some days we’ll do a puppet show.”