May 23, 2019

Early Start grows up and out

Research institute to link more families with early education, supports. 

It is no secret early intervention and support can make all the difference in a child’s development. However, some families in the region do not have access to the support services they need in the early stages of their child’s life.

UOW’s Early Start aims to close the gap by extending its network into the broader community.

On Friday on its superhero-themed fourth birthday, there is much to celebrate for Early Start. In the past 12 months there were more than 125,000 visitors to its Discovery Space, a purpose-built, hands-on learning space, and 2,300 children supported in engagement centres throughout regional and remote New South Wales.

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,” Mr Ball said.

“Last year we welcomed our third community playgroup, Rainbow Families.”

Rainbow Families playgroup member Jasmin Lassilla appreciates the opportunity to meet and support families like hers.

“I love having our playgroup at the Discovery Space,” Ms Lassilla said.

“The support and interest from the staff and volunteers makes me confident it’s a safe, welcoming and inclusive place.”

Early Start's superhero-themed 4th birthday party.

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,” Mr 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.”

Early Start 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. UOW Associate Professor and Early Start Researcher Bridget Kelly also had the privilege of addressing the Senate on the power of junk food advertising.

The media is welcome to the official birthday ceremony at UOW Early Start Discovery Space on Friday 24 May at 10.30am. Early Start benefactors Chris and Barbara Abbott will be here to celebrate the day with children, families and the community.

Superhero celebrations will continue from 9am to 4pm, Friday 24 May to Sunday 26 May.