Discover our village of impact

The work we do with children and families has an impact on who children are and who they become. Scroll down to read stories of the impact we have had on the wellbeing of children and families.

Our impact at a glance

3,117

children provided high-quality early childhood education and care

593

children with disabilities supported with early intervention

137

families facing challenges supported to be enrolled in mainstream settings

138

children in supported playgroups and activities

*Data from 2024

Download annual report

A message from our CEO

"We see the whole child, their world and their family. We respect their rights and encourage them to participate and have powerful voices."
Kay Turner, Chief Executive Officer

Early experiences are vital to children's wellbeing

At SDN, we’re building an equitable world where all children thrive. We know from research that children thrive when their whole wellbeing is enhanced. We focus on making sure children have the following:

They are loved and safe

They are healthy

They have a positive sense of culture and identity

They are learning

They are participating

They have material basics

Learn more

Our stories

See stories about

Being healthy

Positive sense of culture and identity

Learning

Participation

Having material basics

The positive impact of a 43 year career in early childhood

What does it mean to truly make an impact in shaping a child’s life? Read about Anne's 43 year career journey at SDN.

The Beranga model: supporting children to reach their full potential

The positive impact that SDN Beranga Autism Specific Preschool has on children, families and in the community is beyond words. Qualified educators form a strong partnership with families to meet their child’s goals and inspire positive change every day. At Beranga, we create a village of support for families to feel confident, capable and connected.

Thriving Families – humanising the family support system

Through their Thriving Families framework, our SDN Family Preservation team have reframed and adapted their practices to ensure their work makes a difference to the lives of children and families. At the centre of this is their coaching approach, which builds the capacity of families and acknowledges their unique strengths.

Supported playgroups; benefitting children and families now and into the future

SDN’s Ngara Nanga Mai Aboriginal Playgroup, supports the participation of vulnerable Aboriginal children and families by developing a sense of cultural connection and safety that ensures the cultural identity of children and families is accepted and nurtured.

Family Preservation program - creating positive change

SDN Family Preservation program works in partnership with caregivers to achieve sustainable change for their child/ren and families such as improved child wellbeing and family functioning. Using a coaching approach, caregivers increase their knowledge and skills, leaving SDN feeling more confident to take on future projects with the support of our village. SDN delivers evidence-based parenting programs including Tuning into Kids.

SDN staff giving

Our Staff Giving program at SDN is an opportunity for each employee to make a positive difference in the life of a child. This year, we celebrate 10 years of this initiative. Hear from one of our longstanding staff members, Rosie, speak about what Staff Giving means to her.