SA families now have greater access to vital child health and development checks
Community Children’s Centres SA and Sonder will support the work of the state’s leading provider, Child and Family Health Service (CaFHS), to deliver free child health and development checks to help every child have the best start in life.
The first five years of a child’s life are critical for their health, brain development, and learning. To support children and families through this important period, seven milestone checks are recommended from birth to five years.
This expansion will increase access to child health and development checks, particularly in regional and remote communities, to help track growth, celebrate milestones and can assist in connecting children and families to any needed supports sooner.
A phased expansion will occur, with the two additional providers supplementing the work of CaFHS in delivering child health and development checks in the Murray and Mallee, Fleurieu-Kangaroo Island, Outback, Gawler-Two Wells, and Yorke Peninsula regions. More locations will be added as the expansion continues.
Along with the new service providers and CaFHS, families can also access free child health and development checks at some long day care and preschool providers, and through Aboriginal Controlled Community Health Organisations. Checks can also be booked through a GP or local health care provider - fees may apply.
Quotes attributable to the Hon Blair Boyer MP, Minister for Education, Training and Skills
“Early childhood is a critical period for learning and development. During the first five years of a child’s life, their brain and body develop at the fastest rate, shaping language, social skills, emotional wellbeing and cognitive growth.
“This expansion shows the government’s commitment to giving every child a flying start in life. These child health and development checks play an important role by providing families with advice and support, while helping identify health and development needs early.
“With CaFHS continuing to deliver services statewide, alongside our partner providers, we are well positioned to provide timely support to South Australian families, particularly those in regional and remote areas.
For more information or to find a provider, visit child health and development checks.