Lifestart Eastern Sydney has been operating out of Maroubra Bay Public School for the past eight years. The school continues to be very supportive but an increase in enrolments for 2010 means it will require the classrooms Lifestart has been using and Lifestart will be vacating the school at the end of this year. Lifestart is the only Early Childhood Intervention Service in the eastern Sydney region with 50 children receiving services and another 50 on the waiting list. If you are reading this and know of possible premises, Lifestart would like to hear from you. Please contact Lauren Egan, Area Manager Lifestart Eastern Sydney on 9344 4081 or 0424 194 770.

The NSW Department of Education & Training continues to revise its website and information relevant to the education of students with disabilities is now far more accessible. A link directly from the home page goes to an introductory page linked to a wide range of resources and documants. Headed ‘Disability Programs’, the page also lists all public schools with support classes and special schools. The type of disability catered for by each school is clearly identified. Visit the site at www.det.nsw.edu.au.

The Mayors of Manly (Clr. Jean Hay), Pittwater (Clr. Harvey Rose) and Warringah (Clr. Connie Harris) made a special visit to the Lifestart Northern Beaches Branch in French’s Forest this morning. They attended ‘Open Play’ to meet children and parents and gain a better understanding of the services the branch provides. They all enjoyed the high spirits of the children and getting down on the floor and singing with them.

‘Open Play’ is a core part of Lifestart. It provides an opportunity for the kids to play in a secure environment and for their parents to meet and support each other. It also provides a place where non-Lifestart parents can attend with their children and gain support and advice. For more information about ‘Open Play’ contact your closest Lifestart Branch.