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

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

Our stories

Finding his voice: Jovesa’s time at SDN Batemans Bay

At SDN Batemans Bay Preschool, every child’s potential is recognised, nurtured and celebrated. For four-year-old Jovesa with autism, this has meant finding connection, acceptance and new ways to communicate.

Educating Mila-Mae: Building foundations for life

At SDN Batemans Bay Preschool, every child is seen and embraced for who they are and the light they bring. Mila, a curious and energetic five-year-old child with autism shines bright.

Walking his own path: Rafael’s early learning journey

Every child’s path looks different, and five-year-old Rafael is no exception. His early childhood experience and path towards an autism diagnosis have been marked by unexpected twists and turns as well as joyful discovery.

“I found my calling”: Janene and Amitiel’s story of belonging

At SDN Batemans Bay Preschool, inclusion is reflected in the small everyday details — in the relationships that are slowly built, in daily practice, and in the bravery of families who walk through the preschool doors.

Seeing and sensing the world: Rayah's story of inclusion

At SDN Beranga Autism-Specific Preschool, we are proud to recognise Rayah Clark, one of our dedicated educators. Rayah’s neurodivergence and lived experience as an autistic person brings depth, insight, and a unique perspective to her practice.

From Fear to flourishing: A family’s road to healing

Learn about the transformative impact of SDN’s Thriving Families Framework. This family story highlights the heart of what our Family Preservation caseworkers do: they walk alongside families in crisis, offering tools, strategies, and unwavering encouragement, empowering vulnerable families to rewrite their futures.

History of SDN

We are a not-for-profit organisation with a rich history, serving children and families for more than 120 years.

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Child Safe Organisation

We are a Child Safe Organisation whose purpose is to promote and enhance children’s wellbeing, learning and development in inclusive environments. 

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Aboriginal scholarships

Our scholarship programs enable children to access quality early education, preparing them for their transition to school.

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