Jo Talmage: Healthy communities need early childhood education to pave the way for the next generation

Healthy communities need early childhood education and care to pave the way for the next generation.

Grounded in the science of child development, and what research and communities tell us healthy families need to thrive, early learning centres apply the Early Years Learning Framework Version 2 — a national curriculum ensuring quality and consistency in the delivery of early childhood education programs.

Specifically designed for children aged 0-5, the framework guides families and professionals towards achieving optimal learning and developmental outcomes for children.

Research shows that children who participate in quality early learning programs are more likely to reach their potential, growing up increasingly equipped with the social, cognitive and emotional skills they need to thrive.

These benefits extend well beyond their primary school years with higher levels of educational success, employment, wellbeing, and social skills all linked to participation in quality early childhood education.

Early learning centres also help families and parents thrive by enabling workforce participation, financial security and independence.

Vulnerable families also rely on the sector, with subsidies available to families to ensure they can return to the workforce after time away or work on a healthier family for their children.

Children in the care of the Department of Communities rely on early learning centres to ensure they have a safe place to go with placement opportunities for children in out-of-home care.

Quality early learning centres like Skylar Early Learning work alongside children and families every day.

We see ourselves as partners with families and our community.

We have the privilege of sharing in the wonder of our children’s worlds while ensuring they are cared for, supported and nurtured.

Parents share their day with us, their challenges and joy, and can access other professional services in our centres, such as occupational therapists and play therapists.

Social events such as parent nights and informal gatherings during drop-off and pick-ups — facilitate connections among parents and staff, fostering a community where families support one another and combating the isolation often felt when parenting young children.

There has been a significant shortage of child care in recent times.

However, with more centres opening in 2025, and further support from local and State governments becoming available, access to these essential services is slowly improving.

At Skylar Early Learning, we know that when children and families are supported by high-quality early childhood education and care, whole communities are shaped.

And we are honoured to facilitate that for the Great Southern, each and every day.

Jo Talmage is founder and CEO of Skylar Early Learning.