Steve Bailey, Senior Clinical Services Manager, Sylvanvale
When we talk about giving children the best start in life, we often think about school readiness, academic success, and future employment. However, what is often overlooked is just how early that journey begins and how critical the first steps are, particularly for children living with disabilities or who are not meeting key milestones.
Time and time again, we see the transformative power of early childhood engagement and education. At Sylvanvale, this includes the Mikarie Supported Playgroup, part of the broader Start Strong Pathways program, which introduces children aged 0–5 to early childhood education and gets them ready for school.
Why Early Matters
We know that the children who begin their learning journey early are the ones who go on to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. They are better equipped for school, more adept at socialisation, and develop the incidental skills we all need, including regulating emotions and getting along with others.
The importance of early intervention is reinforced by the 2024 Australian Early Development Census (AEDC), which found that more than 1 in 5 (23.5%) children are starting school developmentally vulnerable in at least one key domain, such as communication, emotional maturity, or social competence. For children with disabilities or developmental delays, the risk is even higher.
These statistics are a clear call to action: the earlier we support children, the better their long-term outcomes in education, employment, and life. Programs like Mikarie’s Supported Playgroup are designed to provide children with the foundational skills they need to thrive and give families the tools to support them every step of the way.
Reaching the Children Who Need It Most
To truly make a difference, we need to understand why some families may not access early intervention. Many parents hesitate to introduce their children to group settings, especially if their child is showing signs of developmental delay, because they fear exclusion or believe their child is “too different”.
But here is the truth: your child is not that different. There are always other families navigating similar journeys and when children are given the opportunity to play, learn, and connect, they flourish.
That is where supported playgroups come in. These sessions allow parents and children to see firsthand how others relate, how children interact, and, most importantly, how their own child can thrive in a structured, inclusive environment. With educators and experts on the ground, these are safe, nurturing spaces designed to bring out the best in every child.
We have seen parents walk in with hesitation and walk out with hope. Parents who once feared their child would not fit in now see them laughing, learning, and making friends. That moment – when a parent sees their child thriving – is powerful. It is what drives us.
Every parent wants the best for their child, whether that is university, a trade, or another path entirely. It all starts with a strong foundation and that is exactly what the Mikarie Supported Playgroup provides.
More Than Just Play
The playgroups are intentionally designed to be a launchpad into early education. Children are introduced to the environment of the Mikarie Child Care Centre which helps them transition smoothly into formal learning settings. Many of our playgroup participants go on to attend Mikarie or other local centres, setting them on a path that could one day lead to higher education or meaningful employment.
But it is not just about the children – parents are active participants too. Our behavioural support staff and educators work alongside families, modelling play and learning strategies, sharing expert insights, and helping parents build confidence and skills to support their child’s development at home.
Join Our 10-Week Supported Playgroup Program
If you are a parent or carer of a young child of any ability, the FREE Mikarie 10-week Supported Playgroup program is the perfect place to start. It is fun, inclusive, and designed to give your child the best possible start in life. You will meet other families, learn from experienced educators, gain practical strategies from behavioural support workers to support your child’s development at home, and watch your child grow in confidence and capability.
While children benefit most from attending the full 10-week program, we understand that life can be unpredictable, and families are welcome to join on the weeks that suit them. Every session is designed to be valuable, whether you attend one or all ten.
Spots are limited, so don’t miss this opportunity to be part of something truly impactful.
To learn more or register, visit mikariechildcarecentre.com.au/supported-playgroup/
Let us work together to build strong foundations for every child.
