Big Fat Smile’s 2019 round of inclusive services are being delivered as part of our commitment to creating support networks for parents, to ensure every child is given the best possible start to life.
Our inclusion programs allow families access a wide range of inclusive services that Big Fat Smile operates in partnership with other organisations. Upcoming services include the Circle of Security Free Parenting Course, support playgroups, free school holiday activities and free counselling for a parent suffering post-natal depression.
Big Fat Smile CEO, Ms. Jenni Hutchins, explains that these programs are just some of the many inclusion programs that Big Fat Smile delivers to provide support and strong social networks to Illawarra families.
“Big Fat Smile exists to enrich the lives and minds of our children and families in their communities. One of our core organisational values is Inclusion, and we take this very seriously. We partner and collaborate with Government, industry bodies and service providers to deliver quality care and support programs for parents and children”
Among these services the Children and Parenting Support Program (CAPS), offers free school holiday activities and supported playgroups. This Government initiative delivered by Big Fat Smile is designed to support families with children aged between 0-12 years-old. In 2017-18 the CAPS program supported 2,200 unique clients across 377 sessions.
Ms. Alarna Lucas, an Illawarra parent expressed that since joining the CAPS program in 2018 as a young mum with her six-month-old son, they have still remained connected with the program and regularly attends playgroups and holiday activities.
“My son is now preparing to transition into high school and I am an active member of the local P&C. I am grateful to the CAP’s program for the way in which it has supported my young family and genuinely connected us with our community” – Ms. Lucas
Alana’s story represents the impact our services have on families within the community. Designed to be accessible to the community, Big Fat Smile’s inclusion program reiterates our goal of delivering equitable and accessible early education and care to all families.
To learn more about our inclusion programs, eligibility and to register for any of our programs, visit www.bigfatsmile.com.au/include-me/ or call Big Fat Smile on 1300 002 237.
