It has been a while since news from Little Yuin has appeared in these pages. On a recent visit it was a pleasure to hear about the programs and activities that support early childhood learning and the preparation for the move to primary school. There is compelling evidence that transition to school life benefits from the foundations established in early childhood learning.

The programs and activities offered at this popular preschool follow the usual curriculum of language development, healthy play and activities, health and well-being. Preschool Director Kim Cooke (who is on leave at present) has successfully applied for funding for programs, activities and other infrastructure that enable the preschool to expand its educational focus and actively use two-way learning that integrates both Indigenous and Western knowledge systems. Auntie Mary Perry runs the Djiringandj language learning program that introduces words in language and incorporates them into yarning. Currently, there is a four-week Nourishing Little Minds program focussed on healthy eating – this includes preparing food using produce from the bush tucker and vegetable gardens. Annemarie Narraway, a local audiologist, attends weekly with programs to build vocabulary and assess hearing, particularly for the children who are transitioning to primary school. Early Childhood teachers, Olga Nielsen and Belinda Frances, engage in the foundational programs that support learning language through narrative, yarning, rhymes and description, development of gross and fine motor skills, and preparation for primary school.

Wigwam play space at Little Yuin

The preschool has a strong connection to community with a local board and the active involvement of Aunties and Uncles. This includes a Teaching Assistant who provides cultural support, others who visit to teach the children about culture and an Uncle who plays didgeridoo for the children. Local Aunties also assist with the day-to-day operation of the preschool. And there is a dedicated bus that runs between Dalmeny and the preschool.

There are no vacancies for 2026, which is a good indication of the popularity and reputation of the preschool. However, there is a waiting list and Olga and Belinda can be contacted about that on 0490 858 500 or email preschool@littleyuin.com. The preschool operates on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

Stuart Absalom

Photo (top right): Yarnin Circle and vegetable garden at Little Yuin