Celebrating child-friendly businesses in the southern suburbs
3 December 2024
Eighteen businesses in Adelaide’s southern suburbs have been recognised for their child-friendly practices at the 2024 Communities for Children Child-Friendly Business Awards.
The awards are run by the Communities for Children Onkaparinga Initiative, funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services, and facilitated by AnglicareSA.
They recognise businesses in the City of Onkaparinga that support children and families by creating welcoming and respectful environments.
Each year, families and children are invited to nominate their favourite local child-friendly business for an award. This year, 31 businesses were nominated.
There were 550 community votes received, delivering four ‘Excellence’ award winners, four ‘Achievement’ award winners and ten businesses who received ‘Encouragement’ certificates. Part of the prize includes promotion by Communities for Children of all award recipients as child-friendly businesses.
The winners were presented with their awards at an evening event in November at the Port Noarlunga Surf Life Saving Club.
At the event, an insightful guest speaker panel shared their expertise on child and family-friendly business practices, discussing both challenges and successes, which included:
- Kelly Wilson, Master Franchisee for SA, TAS & QLD at Baby Sensory and Toddler Sense
- Kylie Warman, Clinical Manager, Senior Speech Pathologist, and Child Safe Officer at Pearson Allied Health Services
- Elise Riannen, Founder, CEO, and Board Member of Here’s to Strength Community Wellness Collaborative Ltd.
During the evening’s proceedings, Here’s to Strength Community Wellness Hub, a not-for-profit service, was presented with membership to the Communities for Children Onkaparinga Child-Friendly Charter for its outstanding child-friendly practices.
AnglicareSA’s Communities for Children Onkaparinga began working with businesses and local business associations across the community in 2005 to help promote the importance and benefits of family and child-friendly business practices.
Businesses that welcome families and children support a sense of community belonging, promote the children’s well-being, and provide an important backdrop for childhood learning in the community.
Having a positive sense of identity and experiencing respectful, responsive relationships strengthens children’s interests and skills in being active contributors in their world now and in the future.
Thank you to all eighteen child-friendly businesses for supporting the children and families of our local community by creating stand-out child-friendly environments and practices that welcome and respect everyone.
2024 Child-friendly business award winners
The following information about the child-friendly practices of each business has come from a variety of sources including community nominations, community votes, and the business.
Excellence award (4 Businesses)
Let’s Play SA! being presented with their award at the 2024 AnglicareSA Communities for Children Onkaparinga Child-Friendly Business Awards.Let’s Play SA! Therapeutic Services
Let’s Play SA! Therapeutic Services offers a welcoming, inclusive space where children and families feel safe and supported. Thoughtfully designed with toys and resources, the environment feels as comforting as home, encouraging children to express themselves and grow. Nicole’s kind, gentle approach ensures both children and families feel at ease, and her dedication is evident in every interaction. Clients value the warm, interactive atmosphere and Nicole’s unwavering commitment to their well-being, making Let’s Play SA! a standout provider where children not only heal but truly thrive.
Lowrider Cafe and Barbershop
Lowrider Café and Barbershop is a family-friendly hub offering great coffee, tasty meals, and top-notch haircuts. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, it provides exceptional care, especially for children, including those with special needs. Parents appreciate the convenience of enjoying a meal or coffee while their kids get haircuts in a fun, engaging environment. The staff, led by Matt and Nicole, are incredibly friendly, creating a comfortable space where families feel at home. Lowrider blends community spirit with outstanding service.
Morphett Vale Childcare Centre being presented with their award at the 2024 AnglicareSA Communities for Children Onkaparinga Child-Friendly Business Awards.
Morphett Vale Childcare Centre
Morphett Vale Childcare Centre is a family-oriented, supportive environment where children feel at home. The compassionate staff treat each child as their own, forming strong bonds with families and creating a safe, nurturing space for children to thrive. They tailor learning to individual needs while fostering group engagement in a fun, secure setting. Known for their dedication, the educators go above and beyond to help children grow in confidence. The centre believes in “creating the future and connecting with the world,” making it an integral part of the community.
Long Shot & Co
Long Shot & Co is a welcoming café for all ages, located across from a beautiful park and playground. Families love the garden, where children can explore, play with toys, and enjoy the water feature. The café offers a “Little Tackers” menu with juices, milkshakes, and the fun “Spider” drink. Special holiday events like “Decorate your own pancake” and visits from Santa add to the charm. With high chairs, a baby change table, and a family-friendly atmosphere, Long Shot & Co makes everyone feel part of their family.
Achievement award (4 Businesses)
Eden Academy Aldinga
Eden Academy Aldinga is a warm, family-oriented childcare centre known for its dedicated, approachable staff and excellent facilities. Focused on creating a home-away-from-home environment, the educators go above and beyond to ensure each child feels safe, secure, and supported. With a high standard of early childhood education, exciting activities, and a varied, nutritious menu, children always leave happy. Families appreciate the open communication and personal attention, making Eden Academy a trusted and welcoming choice for early learning in the community.
Fun Cakes & Crafts
Fun Cakes & Crafts, run by Stef, is a child-friendly business offering unique cakes, crafts, and engaging workshops. Known for exceptional customer service and attention to detail, Fun Cakes & Crafts provides a variety of food-based activities for kids, including inclusive school holiday and OSHC workshops. Stef’s passion shines through in her community work, donating treats to local hospitals and hosting special events like “Dad & Me” classes. Families appreciate the fun, creative environment, and delicious and imaginative experiences.
Cantina 61
Cantina 61 is a community-focused, child-friendly café offering excellent coffee and great food. Recently revitalized under new management, they feature a welcoming environment with a dedicated kids’ room filled with toys, books, and a TV to entertain little ones while parents relax. The café offers a kids’ menu and is known for its friendly service and inclusive atmosphere. With an exciting new menu and extended dinner hours to 8pm, Cantina 61 is the perfect spot for families to enjoy quality time together.
Kai’s Cupcakes
Kai’s Cupcakes is a family-friendly business known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious, affordable treats. They offer hands-on experiences for kids, including cupcake classes and “Paint Your Own” cookie kits, making it a fun destination for little ones. With a special after-school deal and friendly service, children love visiting regularly for a sweet snack and a warm smile. Kai’s Cupcakes is dedicated to creating a child-friendly environment where families can enjoy quality time and tasty treats together.
Encouragement award (10 Businesses)
Coastal Community Support Services
Coastal Community Support Services is a child-friendly hub offering inclusive programs and services tailored to families. With affordable school holiday activities and support for children with high behaviour needs, their team of support workers ensures kids are engaged and cared for. The centre features a spacious, pram-friendly environment with sensory toys and an Activity Room filled with games and crafts. Additionally, they offer a free community pantry, providing essential food items for families, including children’s dietary needs. Coastal fosters a supportive, creative space for children and families alike.
Christie Downs Cool Frogs Early Childhood Centre
Christie Downs Cool Frogs Early Childhood Centre is a welcoming, family-owned childcare facility dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing environment for children. With caring staff who form genuine connections with both children and families, the centre feels like home from the moment you walk in. Parents appreciate the clean, organized space, and on-site chef who prepares fresh meals daily. Cool Frogs excels in supporting children’s learning and development, including those with special needs, fostering a positive and inclusive community where every child thrives.
Boy and Bloom South
Boy and Bloom South is a child-friendly café known for its relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and exceptional customer service. Families love the dedicated kids’ menu, indoor and outdoor seating, and a box of toys that keeps little ones entertained. With a changing table in the bathroom and friendly staff always on hand, it’s a perfect spot for parents to enjoy epic coffee while their children play. Plus, there’s often a friendly dog to pat, making it a delightful experience for everyone.
Mick O’Shea’s Hotel Bistro
Mick O’Shea’s Hotel Bistro is a family-friendly venue that offers allergy-friendly food options for both big and little kids. The extensive children’s menu and wide-open lawn provide plenty of space for kids to run around and explore. On special occasions like Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, the hotel often organises fun activities, including petting zoos, to keep children entertained. With its welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful touches, Mick O’Shea’s ensures a great experience for the whole family.
Gluten Free Cafe Farmhouse
Gluten Free Cafe Farmhouse is a child-friendly café specialising in allergy-friendly foods, offering a wide variety of sweet and savoury treats for kids and adults. Known for their exceptional customer service, the staff goes above and beyond to accommodate dietary needs, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for families. Whether you are celiac or have children with food allergies, this café provides a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can enjoy a delicious meal without worry. Families love the care and understanding shown, making it a trusted spot for allergy-conscious dining.
State Swim Seaford
State Swim Seaford offers a bright, welcoming environment where children of all ages, starting from 4 months, can thrive in small, graded classes tailored to their skill levels. The inclusive and passionate instructors ensure that every child feels supported, and their accomplishments are celebrated. With convenient off-street parking and child-friendly facilities, including changing tables, the centre is designed with families in mind. The friendly staff and engaging programs make State Swim Seaford a great place for children to learn and grow in the water..
Seaford District Community Children’s Centre
Seaford District Community Children’s Centre is dedicated to creating a safe, secure, and supportive environment for children and their families. With staff who have worked at the centre for 10 to 30 years, their commitment and passion shine through in the strong relationships they build with the community. The centre’s long-standing team is proud of its deep connections and the nurturing atmosphere it provides, making Seaford District CCC a trusted, caring space for children to thrive.
Natural Food Barn – Morphett Vale
Natural Food Barn – Morphett Vale offers a friendly child-welcoming, environment with knowledgeable and helpful staff. The store provides easy access for prams and wheelchairs and carries a variety of health products specifically for children, along with healthy treats. The friendly staff are always ready to assist, making it a great spot for families to shop for nutritious options.
The Golden Fleece Cafe Willunga
The Golden Fleece Café Willunga is a family-friendly venue, offering a welcoming environment for all ages. Parents can relax with coffee in a special room where children can play safely, thanks to closed doors that ensure little ones can’t wander off. The café features a children’s menu, a wide selection of toys, and a charming outdoor space with a sunflower-painted fence. With accommodating staff and dog friendly, The Golden Fleece Café is a great spot for both kids and parents to enjoy together.
Dawn Patrol Coffee
Dawn Patrol Coffee is a family-friendly spot, offering a welcoming environment for children. With a fun indoor space and a safe outdoor area perfect for kids to explore, it’s an ideal destination for families. The venue provides easy pram access and plenty of on-site parking. Parents can enjoy excellent coffee while the little ones have fun in the open space, and the kid-friendly food ensures everyone is happy. Dawn Patrol Coffee is a pleasant and relaxing place for all ages.
Child-Friendly Charter Membership Recipient
Here’s to Strength Community Wellness Hub
Here’s to Strength Community Wellness Hub is a welcoming, child-friendly space offering a range of services for families. With an all-day café serving allergy-friendly options, a kids’ menu, and a large outdoor area with therapy animals and play equipment, it’s perfect for children to explore while parents relax. The hub also features wellness services, a community pantry, and a retail store with comfort gifts. Known for its supportive environment, it’s a place where families can access self-care, connection, and vital mental health resources.