Plumtree Children's Services

17/06/2026

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the PRECI conference in Adelaide with the Australian Child and Family Supports Alliance (ACaFSA).

It was inspiring to be in a room with so many people who care deeply about children and families. People from across Australia came together to share ideas, learn from each other, and strengthen how we support families in everyday life.

What stood out most was the strong sense of collaboration and shared purpose — supporting children to have the best possible start and helping families feel confident and connected.

At Plumtree, we believe families are the most important people in a child’s life. Opportunities like this remind us how important it is to keep listening, learning and working together in ways that fit your family’s goals and everyday routines.

I left feeling energised and hopeful about what we can continue to build together.

~ Sylvana
Plumtree CEO

16/06/2026

Many thanks to the parents and carers who took the time to complete our survey about visiting local libraries with young children with disability or developmental concerns.

We’ve drawn three winners, and each will receive a $50 book voucher as a small thank you.

The winning entries came from visits to Marrickville, Cabramatta, Maitland and Ipswich libraries. We really appreciate all your feedback, both positive and constructive. Your insights will be shared with library staff to help make visits more welcoming and successful for all families.

If you would still like to share your experience, you can access the survey here:
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/Xeknr50cck

15/06/2026

What is inclusion?

Inclusion is about every child and family being valued, feeling they belong, and having opportunities to take part in everyday life.

Paralympian Kurt Fearnley, during our Family Conference 2023, shared his personal journey of growing up in a strong and supportive community, and how this shaped his understanding of inclusion and belonging. His reflections remind us that supporting children and families is about more than therapy. It is about building connections, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities for every child to be included in meaningful ways.

These slides share some of the key ideas from our conversation with Kurt and explore what this can look like in everyday life.

If you would like to explore these ideas further, you can watch the full recording here: https://youtu.be/MIJlpoazdos?si=NRF-2MCFRi7_Ipb5
Auslan translation: https://youtu.be/4y6g0pj2_Dk?si=5ulSCFDHjpsrjvl6

14/06/2026

THIS SESSION HAS BEEN POSTPONED TO THURSDAY 23 JULY

This two-part workshop is designed for families of children with disability or developmental delay

Through PhotoVoice, a fun and creative approach, children can use photography to show what they enjoy — or find challenging — in their community.

Parents and carers will learn how to support their child to take and talk about their photos, and then share these experiences with others in the second session.

🎁 Special offer
Register and attend both sessions to receive a free small digital camera so your child can keep capturing their world after the workshop!
(Available to families based in Australia only)

📸 RSVP here
https://www.plumtree.org.au/event/photovoice_library_t226/

12/06/2026

Planning a visit to the Australian Museum? 🦖✨

They’ve put a lot of care into making the space welcoming and accessible for everyone.

The museum offers a range of supports for families and visitors with different needs. This includes wheelchair access throughout the building, ramps, lifts and automatic doors, as well as welcoming assistance animals.

There are also inclusive programs such as sensory-friendly sessions, quieter visiting times, and special events designed for people who prefer a more relaxed environment. 🌿

For visitors who are blind, low vision, deaf or hard of hearing, there are audio description tours, Auslan-interpreted programs and hearing loop technology in some spaces. 🎧🤟

The museum also supports people with hidden disabilities and offers helpful resources like visual guides to prepare for your visit. 💛

It’s a great example of how public spaces can support all families to feel included and enjoy learning together.

Find out more here:

The Australian Museum provides access to all areas of the museum for people in wheelchairs and mobility scooters, and a range of inclusive programs.

11/06/2026

Have you ever wondered what your child is learning when they draw or scribble?
Let's explore drawing and mark making. These early marks are the beginning of communication, storytelling and expressing ideas.

Every line and scribble has meaning.
Take a few minutes to watch and reflect on your child’s play in a new way.

Drawing offers children opportunities to master pencil control, stimulating imagination and improving cognitive planning. About Play is a series of videos th...

10/06/2026

Looking after yourself is an important part of supporting your child

In this recorded conversation, Bree Pennie, Kylie Aekins, Frank Mathisen and Helen Poulos reflect on a common experience for many families; how easy it is to put your own needs last.

Between appointments, school and the rhythm of daily life, there is often little time left for yourself. This conversation gently explores why your wellbeing matters, and how caring for yourself supports your whole family.

Together, the panel shares honest reflections and simple ideas for finding small moments of care, rest and joy in everyday life.

This recording comes from our Caring for Yourself, Caring for Your Family conference and brings together shared experiences from families and professionals.

We hope it feels supportive and reminds you that you matter too.

Listen here, you might like to save this for later, or listen at a time that works for you:
https://www.plumtree.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Audio_Caring-for-Yourself-Caring-for-Your-Family.mp3

09/06/2026

Getting ready for school can bring many questions and emotions for families. You don’t have to figure it out alone.

Join us for a relaxed, supportive parent panel where families share what helped them and their child take this important next step.

📅 Tuesday 16 June, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm (AEST) - at the latest.

Hear from parents who have been there. They’ll share their experiences across different pathways, including mainstream schools, support schools and starting school later. You’ll hear how they chose the right setting for their child, what made the transition smoother, and how they built positive relationships with their school.

This is a chance to:
• learn about different school options
• understand what each setting can offer your child
• hear practical ideas you can use in your everyday routines
• ask questions about what matters most to your family

We focus on the NSW school starting process, and families from all states are very welcome.

We believe families are the experts on their child. This session is about sharing real experiences, ideas and support so you can make the choices that feel right for you.
Spaces are limited.

RSVP here: https://www.plumtree.org.au/event/school-readiness-school-experience/

07/06/2026

We’re sorry for any inconvenience. We look forward to seeing you next week.

If you are a new family and would like to join our group, you can find more information here: https://www.plumtree.org.au/event/explorers-play-in-the-park_2026/

05/06/2026

Join this free NDIS discussion hosted by Family Advocacy

📅 Wednesday 24 June, 7pm to 8pm (Sydney time)

Looking to build your understanding of the NDIS? Mandy and Jo from Family Advocacy are facilitating this friendly, guided conversation for families.

You’re welcome to join even if it’s your first session. When you register, you can share any questions or topics you’d like covered — every question is welcome.

Register here: https://bit.ly/NDISDiscussionSeriesJune2026

Examples of questions asked:
• Why is Vision relevant when preparing for planning meetings?
• Do you have any strategies to navigate the new NDIS rules?
• How do I get funding for support at home?
• How can I self manage an NDIS plan?

"One of the best discussions I’ve been a part of. Clear communication and personal insight made it easy to follow. I feel more empowered to know how to move forward with our planning.” - Parent