20 years of Communities for Children in the East Kimberley

For two decades, Communities for Children has been playing a vital role in supporting children and families across the East Kimberley 

For two decades, Communities for Children has been playing a vital role in supporting children and families across the East Kimberley. Delivered by 54 reasons in close collaboration with our local partners, the initiative uses play-based learning, language revitalisation, school readiness programs and strong community relationships to help transform early childhood education in one of the most remote regions of Australia. 

To mark the 20th anniversary, we’re celebrating the children, families, educators and community leaders who have shaped the program – and the remarkable impact they’ve created together. 

This short video takes you inside the play spaces, learning centres and partnerships that have shaped the lives of multiple generations. You’ll hear from local educators and families about why culturally responsive learning matters, how play builds confidence, and how strong community leadership ensures children are ready for school. 

Early childhood education is about much more than playtime. In these formative years, children develop the building blocks of communication, problem-solving and emotional resilience. Children who begin without structure or routine quickly learn how to listen, cooperate and play alongside others – vital skills that help them transition smoothly into a school environment. 

In the East Kimberley, early learning is also rooted in culture and identity. Programs weave Aboriginal perspectives into lessons, teaching children in both English and local languages. This helps children feel proud of who they are and ensures cultural knowledge is carried forward for future generations. 

Strong partnerships have been at the heart of Communities for Children since the beginning. Every partner organisation is Aboriginal-led, deeply embedded in the community, and trusted by families. This ensures programs are not only effective but also culturally safe. 

“It’s very important that we are leading it because we make the kids feel comfortable and we're their role model,” says Sophia Mung of the Goonanawoom Centre, one of our local partners. 

The legacy of this work is clear. Some of today’s educators first came through the program as young children themselves. Now they’re teaching the next generation – passing on knowledge, skills and confidence, just as it was passed to them. 

“I'm here now at the language centre, becoming a language teacher, and I'm doing the same thing,” says Che Kelly of the Mirima Dawang Woorlab-gerring Language and Culture Centre. 

For 20 years, Communities for Children has brought families together, supported children to thrive, and helped keep their culture strong. As the next generation of leaders begins to step forward, the impact of this work will continue to ripple through the East Kimberley for decades to come. 

“We would love for it to keep going,” says Sophia Mung. “Because it's doing a really good thing for our children.” 

Learn more about 54 reasons, which delivers Save the Children’s services in Australia.