Children & Early Years

The Access to Early Learning (AEL) program is a free service aimed at improving the participation of vulnerable three-year-old children in high quality early childhood education centres in the City of Greater Dandenong and City of Casey.

The AEL team can support three-year-old children to attend a kindergarten run by qualified teachers for up to 15 hours per week. This can be in a stand-alone kindergarten, or in kindergarten programs delivered in long day care centres.

Support can include:

• Linking parents and their children to local kindergarten programs
• Support parents so their child can attend kindergarten throughout the year
• Visit parents at home to help create an environment of learning through play
• Assist with the child’s transition to four-year-old kindergarten
• Support parents in developing their own parenting skills

Referrals for this program are completed by case managers or support professionals. If clients are interested in applying for this program, speak with your support worker.

Get in touch:

P: (03) 8792 8999 | E: [email protected]

Find out more information on the AEL program by clicking here

Hampton Park Community House (HPCH) offers a range of programs tailored to children under 5, ensuring a fun and enriching experience for all.

Download the flyer for more information by clicking here!

• Hampton Park Community Kindergarten – Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 2:00pm
• Occasional Care – Tuesday to Friday
• Before & After Kinder Care
• Bush Kinder
• Kindergarten Vacation Care

With lift services available via the HPCH Community Bus Service.

A free 6-week neuro-inclusive social group for the whole family. Come with your family to build and connect through Lego in an environment which is welcoming and inclusive of neurodiversity. Facilitated by final years students completing degrees in occupational therapy and social work.

Register via the Flyer

Sessions run across Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at a variety of locations, see below table. For more information please contact Barbara Ingram on 9108 3500 or [email protected]

Flyer

This program is aimed at parents who have connections with the Pakenham area who have neurodiverse children. This group will also be
an opportunity for parents to share their experiences with others who are navigating the same thing.

Weekly topics
• Understanding Neurodiversity
• Building a Positive Relationship with Your
Child
• Supporting Sensory Needs and Sensory
Processing Challenges
• Supporting Learning and Executive
Functioning Skills
• Managing Behaviour and Emotional
Regulation
• Advocating for Your Child and Building
Support Networks
• Self-care for parents

 Flyer

Engaging six session parenting program designed for parents and carers of children age 2-10 years.

Based on easy-to-follow five-step emotional coaching approach, empowering families to build stronger relationships and support children’s emotional wellbeing. Register via flyer attached.

Tuning in to Kids Flyer – T2 2025