Inner West Council Children's Services

08/05/2026

Inner West Family Day Care celebrated Family Day Care Week with their 12th consecutive Biggest Morning Tea, raising vital funds for cancer research. Families enjoyed a play session filled with games, singing, dancing, and story time.

We spoke with educators about what makes their work so special, including Armanda, who is retiring next month after an unbelievable 33 years as a family day care educator. Her dedication has shaped generations of children - a truly well-earned next chapter!

05/05/2026

Some of our educators recently attended a two-day art retreat at Bundanon - the museum, gallery and learning centre set on the historic homestead of celebrated Australian artist Arthur Boyd.

The experience combined creative exploration with rich pedagogical reflection, beginning with a visit to the Sky, Earth, Water exhibition, where participants examined how the use of multiples in artworks can enhance learning across language, mathematics and beyond.

Through hands-on workshops, educators created their own artworks inspired by shapes and patterns found in the natural world, exploring practical ways to adapt these concepts for younger learners.

Collaborative discussions centred on art programming principles and the concept that “one good idea can take you to a million places” - sparking innovative thinking about curriculum design.

The retreat also provided valuable time for educators to design and present new learning experiences, while connecting with colleagues across services.

Surrounded by Bundanon’s stunning landscape and wildlife, participants were able to reconnect with their own creativity, strengthen collaboration, and reinvigorate their passion for early childhood education.

04/05/2026

Climate change is one of the biggest challenges we face, and Inner West Council is committed to reducing our impact while building a better future for our community.

Council is currently updating the Inner West Climate Strategy and would love to hear from families with young children. Your insights and everyday experiences can help shape practical, family-friendly solutions for a more sustainable Inner West.

Click below to complete the short survey:

https://yoursay.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/updating-inner-west-climate-strategy

13/04/2026

It's great to see council‑run early learning services getting the recognition they deserve for safety and quality.

We're proud of our team and council services like ours, doing the work day in, day out to keep children safe and supported.

As the safety crisis in early childhood education and care continues to grow, expanding safe and high quality council-run services can be the antidote to unsafe practices.

31/03/2026

Twenty of our Inner West educators recently took part in a hands-on workshop at Centennial Parklands focused on inclusion, communication and wellbeing in outdoor learning.

The session strengthened skills for creating safe, engaging and inclusive outdoor experiences, with practical strategies for supporting children with diverse needs including ADHD, ASD, anxiety, behavioural considerations and sensory processing differences.

A valuable day of learning that will help us continue to deliver welcoming and inclusive outdoor programs for all children.

10/03/2026

Last Saturday, the Inner West Family Day Care team came together for a day of learning, connection and recognition. The session was described as informative (covering updates on sector reforms), supportive and a great chance to catch up with fellow educators and the management team.

As part of the day, the team also marked International Women’s Day by recognising the remarkable contribution of Family Day Care educators, all of whom run their own home-based education and care businesses.

Family Day Care has operated for more than 50 years as a trusted alternative to centre-based child care, and we are proud to acknowledge the following educators who have provided this vital service to Inner West families for so many years:

⭐Robyn O’Neill – 35 years
⭐Amanda Costa – 33 years
⭐Candida Ribeiro – 30 years
⭐Noura Azzi – 25 years
⭐Fatima Araujo – 20 years
⭐Marina Ferreira – 15 years
⭐Haydi Mico – 8 years
⭐Sonia Vicario – 5 years

24/02/2026

A reminder to eligible parents and carers that the latest $50 Active and Creative Kids voucher is now available. To check your eligibility or submit an application, visit:
https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/active-and-creative-kids-voucher

18/02/2026

Leichhardt Early Learning Centre families, educators and children enjoyed a wonderful Chinese New Year celebration yesterday.

The atmosphere was positive and engaging as everyone took part in dumpling making, traditional Chinese dress-ups, lantern making, lion dancing, a cherry blossom artwork and the Red Envelope tradition. The red envelope represents the sharing of good fortune, prosperity and happiness for the year ahead, and the children were excited to participate.

Happy Chinese New Year, everyone!

29/01/2026

This week we farewell Dina, a much loved and long-standing member of the team and community at Deborah Little Early Learning Centre.

After more than 36 years of dedication to early childhood education, Dina has retired from her permanent role. Her commitment, passion and care have made a lasting impact on children, families and colleagues. She will be dearly missed.

Children, staff and visitors enjoyed a morning tea and sing-a-long to celebrate Dina, and presented her with a commemorative photo book, gifts and flowers. We wish her all the best for a well deserved retirement!

12/01/2026

Last week, our educators came together for an inspiring professional development day, starting with a keynote from Kathy Cologon, Associate Director at the Children’s Voices Research Centre. Kathy challenged us to rethink inclusion and reminded us how presuming competence can transform learning, belonging and wellbeing for every child.

Participants then explored hands-on workshops – from Reggio-inspired creative arts and drama for confidence and connection, to sensory processing strategies and contemporary textile art.

The feedback says it all: “I discovered new ways to foster creativity and inclusion”, “I learned practical strategies to support sensory needs” and "I enjoyed it so much with lots of laughter, fun memories, and some great ideas to take back to my work".

Thank you to all presenters (especially our IWC educators who developed and delivered some outstanding sessions!) and everyone who attended, for sharing ideas and building our learning community. Together, we’re creating spaces where every child can thrive.

26/11/2025

As the year draws to a close, May Murray ELC has been practicing excursions with the younger children to help build their confidence and independence as they prepare to become the “big kids” next year.

"Even a short walk through our community provides so many opportunities for wonder and exploration. We love the way we can connect with Country by observing the plants, animals and insects that live alongside us."