Redlands community builds connections for those who need it most

In celebration of ‘Under Eights Week’, the Redlands Integrated Early Years Place opened its doors to the wider community with an ‘invitation to play’ event today – designed to spark nostalgia and celebrate the games, activities and moments of joy shared across generations through play.

Now in its eighth year, Redlands Integrated Early Years Place has proudly supported the community event by helping to strengthen local connections and linking families with support services and organisations, including access to early childhood education and care. 

“Under 8’s Day is a free community event, and for us it’s also a key engagement opportunity,” Redlands Integrated Early Years Place Service Coordinator Shannon Higgins said.

“It’s designed to welcome families on-site, help them feel safe and comfortable in the space, and connect them with supports they can access all year round.”

Redlands Integrated Early Years Place (RIEYP) is a community hub supporting children from birth to eight and their families, funded by the Department of Education and delivered by Goodstart Early Learning in partnership with The Benevolent Society.

They offer integrated services that support both children’s development and family wellbeing, including playgroups, Kindy to Prep transition support, and early intervention. Families can also access a range of on-site supports such as child health, mental health services, and visiting clinics, including vaccination programs.

By bringing services together in one place, it becomes easier for families to connect early, feel supported, and access the help they need in a safe and welcoming environment.

“Here families can explore a range of child-focused activities delivered by our service partners, while also getting to know the services available.”

“The focus is on building trust and creating a positive first experience that encourages families to come back.”

Goodstart Social Impact Manager Jodie Goddard said the event is a valuable opportunity for families to connect with their community in a welcoming and positive environment.

“These events play an important role in early intervention by helping families build trust, access support early, and develop ongoing connections with services that can positively impact children’s wellbeing and development,” Jodie said. 

Each year, Redlands Integrated Early Years Place Under 8’s Week celebration event has continued to grow both in attendance and impact.

The showcase of ‘play’ had games and activities that brought joy for different generations including face painting, mask making, story times, hand puppets, up close peaks at police and ambulance vehicles. 

This anniversary is particularly special because it reflects how the event has evolved into a genuine pathway for connection - not just a one-day celebration.

Under Eights Week is an initiative lead by the ECA Queensland Committee. 2026 marks 70 years of building and creating community connections for young children across Queensland through this initiative.