Early Childhood Care and Development

First Nations community-led playgroups in Central Australia and the West Kimberley are fostering strong starts for children through culturally rich learning.

Local women bring together cultural knowledge and early childhood development expertise to nurture and educate children aged 0–5, helping prepare them for school. Children learn in welcoming playgroup centres, within community spaces and on Country. Storytelling and learning through culture and play are delivered in both local language and English.

Children enjoy nutritious food and access health support, while family caregivers access parenting workshops and ongoing support. Our approach affirms families’ critical role as their children’s first teachers.

This First Nations-led playgroup model works, delivering a 31% increase in school readiness skills in a remote Western Australian First Nations community.

Led by local Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), playgroups also create vital employment and training opportunities for women in remote communities.

Local women taking the lead supports program sustainability and ensures playgroups are culturally safe places for children and families.

World Vision Australia supports ACCOs to run and manage their own playgroups for as long as they ask for support. Communities make all decisions about their children’s learning.

Through playgroups, remote First Nations communities are supporting children and families to thrive, belong and grow up culturally strong.