Connected Beginnings

Empowering early childhood development for a brighter future.

About Connected Beginnings

Caroline Dalgety / Kischa Stuart

Aboriginal Health Practioners
What is Connected Beginnings?

The Connected Beginnings program provides a comprehensive range of health-focused activities designed to prepare children aged 0-5 years for school. Features of the program include regular visits to childcare centers, integrating our services into the children’s daily routines for greater accessibility. In collaboration with the Department for Education and other local stakeholders, the program includes health checks, developmental tracking through ASQ Trax, and referrals to specialized services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and dietary advice. Monthly meetings at the Connected Beginnings Hub and Mambi, along with sessions at Carlton Children’s Centre in Port Augusta, ensure consistent engagement. Additionally, we offer group sessions for parents and carers to support language development, clinic sessions for early screening, and group education on health promotion. All services are provided at no cost for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families, removing financial barriers and ensuring equitable access to essential early childhood support.

When and Where

The program operates through monthly meetings at the Connected Beginnings Hub and Mambi, ensuring consistent support and regular updates on each child’s progress. All activities and services are conducted at the Carlton Children’s Centre in Port Augusta, which serves as a convenient central location for families. Importantly, all services are provided free of charge for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families, eliminating financial barriers and facilitating access to quality early childhood support.

Eligibility

The eligibility for access to Pika Wiya Health Service is primarily limited to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people residing or visiting the Pika Wiya catchment area.

This program is specifically designed for children aged 0-5 years.

Contact Info

To register for the Connected Beginnings program or obtain more information, please contact Sheila Phopo directly.

Sheila is available to assist with the registration process and answer any questions you may have.

You can reach her at (08) 8642 9906.