Early Childhood Education

ICPA seeks to ensure that an appropriate and affordable range of early childhood programs and childcare be available to support children and families who live in rural and remote areas. This includes the provision of recognised early childhood distance education programs where there is no reasonable access to an education centre and flexible childcare appropriate to families’ needs.

WHATS GOOD TO KNOW

Remote and Isolated Children's Exercise (RICE)

RICE remains essential in delivering childcare assistance to children in remote areas, offering a range of services such as kindergarten programs, play days, childcare, and crèches.

Chloe Hunter, the Director, along with Tania George, the RICE kindergarten teacher, have been actively engaged in managing the new mid-year intake for the kindergarten program. Starting from Term 3 of 2023, children born between May 1st and October 31st will now qualify to begin preschool. This expansion of eligibility is designed to grant a greater number of children access to early education, promoting their growth and learning. This adjustment marks great progress towards ensuring fair and inclusive availability of preschool education to all children.

If you would like to become a member or renew your RICE membership feel free to contact admin@rice.org.au.

Royal Commission on Early Childhood Education and Care

The South Australian Labor Government will begin right away to put into action the suggestions from the Royal Commission on Early Childhood Education and Care. This will make South Australia a top player in early childhood development and enhance the lives of many children.

Child and Family Health Service (CaFHS)

SA ICPA maintains its collaboration with CaFHS (Child and Family Health Service) to explore enhancements in communication for families residing in rural and remote regions. During the 2023 SAICPA State Conference, the State Council proposed a motion that conveyed appreciation to CaFHS for their joint endeavors with SAICPA, contributing to better outcomes for association members. This motion was supported, highlighting the favorable influence of this partnership. Nonetheless, speakers at the conference discussed the continued importance of SAICPA's advocacy for equitable care and support for mothers and infants in remote areas.  

Families residing in remote regions require support, yet noticeable disparities exist in the services provided to urban mothers versus those in rural areas. SAICPA remains committed to collaborating with CaFHS to enhance the quality of care for families in rural and remote areas. To contact CaFHS, please call 1300 733 606.

Following a positive delegation in September 2023, CaFHS have provided some important information to SA ICPA families in the following document, including resource links and helpful information about the services that they offer and when checks are required.

CaFHS Country North

Expecting mothers and mothers with children under 5 years of age are especially encouraged to check the CaFHS website as it has a lot of useful information.

https://www.cafhs.sa.gov.au/

CaFHS also encourage SA ICPA members or those in your area to let CaFHS staff know that they are rural/remote when ringing CaFHS in the hope that staff will be understanding and more accommodating when finding appointment times.

Things to note:

• Parent help line 1800 364 100
• Phone App "Early Years SA"
• Webinars readily available on the CaFHS website
• https://www.facebook.com/WCHNetwork CaFHS frequently post on this facebook page

WHAT WE ARE WORKING ON

The Early Childhood Portfolio’s current focus is on health services and keeping families informed about clinics, playdays and educational activities in their area.