Tash Blad, left, Kylie Heinrich, Leonie Giancaspro, Nicky Cominos, Deanne Waldhuter and Mary Bateman are pictured at the opening of Solomontown Kindergarten’s inclusive program.
A notable milestone reached by the Solomontown Kindergarten was recognised and celebrated last Wednesday, as community and staff members turned out to support the official opening of the inclusive preschool program’s ‘Bilby’ room.
Funded earlier in the year by Universal Access, the program is designed to encourage children’s independence as well as providing them with a safe setting.
Students have access to a variety of equipment in a designated area that includes sensory toys, hammocks, communication devices and visual cues, schedules and routines.
Director Nicky Cominos said it had been a long journey, but extremely worthwhile.
“Through this program, we can ensure the needs of children are being met in the best way possible,” she said.
“I would like to thank everyone who has been a support on this tumultuous ride.”
Ms Cominos hopes the kindergarten will be seen as a mentor site for others in the region.
“This is a great resource, not only for the children and families in Port Pirie, but also for other centres who are aiming to do something similar.
“Our program is brilliant and Port Pirie is very fortunate to have this in the town.”
The Bilby room is run within the preschool but a smaller room is dedicated to the high support children to allow for quietness and individual attention.
Children mix with the main kindergarten but can move back to the dedicated room at any time.