Research tells us that the early years of a child's life are critical in providing a strong foundation for lifelong learning, positive behaviour, and good health outcomes. Early childhood programs and quality childcare have long term positive outcomes for children which extend into their adult lives and benefit the community as a whole.
A new model of care for the early years
We understand that it can be confusing and time-consuming for families trying to find services to meet their needs. We are establishing an Early Years Centre in the North Gold Coast of Queensland, especially for families who have young children with a wide range of parenting, early chldhood education and care, and health services under one roof.
Our childcare centres
We provide quality care with a strong focus on the social and emotional development of young children. We work with the strengths and interests of each child to encourage all aspects of their development. We believe this helps to establish a strong foundation for the lifelong learning of children. Our childcare centres in Bondi and Woollahra are open to families with children aged 0–5 years needing long day care on a full or part time basis. All families are eligible to enrol for these services and priority is given to children with working parents or additional stresses.
Partnerships with early childhood services
Since 2001 we’ve been working in partnership with several childcare providers to find creative ways of working with children and families in childcare and preschool settings.
Childcare is often the first place that families to turn to for support and assistance, and staff are required to respond to increasingly complex family needs. Our Partnerships in Early Childhood program offers a range of activities tailored to meet the particular needs of the children and families in each childcare centre. Our program also works with the childcare staff to identify the assistance they need to do their job better. The focus is on promoting healthy relationships, with the childcare centre acting as a community centre.
Resources and training for early childhood staff
We run a professional development program for early childhood staff called Strengths Based Practice in Children's Services. The program provides learning opportunities and resources for early childhood staff, including practical tools, workshops and readings. The focus is on helping children and families to discover their own strengths, rather than concentrating on perceived weaknesses. Find out about the Strengths Based Practice project – you'll find useful materials and details of upcoming events.
Using research to inform our practice
We're conducting a research project as part of our Partnerships in Early Childhood program, involving case study reviews of 14 children over three years. Attachment Matters will give us insights into how effective the program's approach is, and we’ll apply these learnings back into our childcare training.
More information
Browse our resources for early childhood materials, including newsletters, presentations and posters.