You are here More Pages
Early Start

Early Start

This is the place where curiosity rules

A place where research, education, and community come together for children, especially for those growing up in regional and remote Australia. No matter their background, circumstance or challenges - we stand for kids.

Early Start is collaborative initiative between the Commonwealth Government, the Abbott foundation and the University of Wollongong to positively impact on the life trajectories of children growing up in regional and remote Australia. Early Start is an entity of the Faculty of the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities.

Where curious minds play

father and son playing Early Start Discovery Space

An interactive children’s play space that stimulates curiosity, nurtures creativity, builds confidence, hands on learning and provides opportunities for social connection, wellbeing and development.

building external shot Research and advocacy

Our interdisciplinary researchers investigate areas of children’s learning, health and development. We develop and advocate for evidence-based policies and programs.

girl holding a chicken Engagement

Early Start supports and collaborates with a network of early childhood education and care centres in regional and remote areas to enrich professional practice and strengthen the outcomes for children.

Children ark-canoe Translation

Early Start aims to make a difference in the real world by turning our research into practice. We do this at scale and in partnership with the community, early childhood field and education sector, and governments.

Resources

Play and Learn Together Logo - an Early Start initiative Play & Learn Together

Play & Learn Together is a free, research-informed, play-based learning hub for parents, families and educators.

Preschool aged children creating an indigenous inspired poster with their handprints 2021 Annual Report

Early Start highlights from 2021

News

Community, Education

Early Start Discovery Space welcomes one-millionth visitor

Milestone highlights Discovery Space’s role in inspiring young minds through innovative, hands-on learning experiences
Health and Medicine, Research

Only 1 in 7 children meet global health guidelines, researchers discover

New study led by Dr Kar Hau Chong finds most 3-4 year olds are falling behind on physical activity, sleep, and sedentary screen time
Education

The hidden benefits of challenging play

New research shows parental intervention can support the development of children’s self-regulation