Strengthening Aboriginal Child Development in Central Australia through a Universal Preschool Readiness Program

Abstract

<b>THIS PAPER EXAMINES A</b> recent example of a transition-to-preschool program in regional Australia. The program is significant in linking Aboriginal child health and early childhood learning services. The discussion is drawn from a mixed method evaluation undertaken at the end of the program's first two years of funding. Evaluation findings suggest that many barriers to participation in early childhood learning programs for Aboriginal children can be reduced with responsive support. The study points to the need for funding for innovations to be seen as an essential investment, not an unwanted cost.