Seven early learning centres in Greater Shepparton have been recognised for their outstanding efforts in promoting children’s oral health through the Smiles 4 Miles program.

The awards, delivered by Dental Health Services Victoria (DHSV), celebrate the centres’ commitment to building lifelong healthy habits through simple but powerful messages: “Drink well, Eat well, Clean well.”

The Smiles 4 Miles initiative is based on the World Health Organization’s Health Promoting Schools Framework and aims to improve oral health outcomes for children and families in high-risk areas across Victoria.

GV Health currently delivers the program to 38 early learning centres across Greater Shepparton, Strathbogie Shire and Moira Shire, reaching more than 2,300 children.

The seven awarded centres, Arthur Dickmann Children’s Centre, Dolena Young Preschool, Frank R. Pullar Children’s Centre, Isabel Pearce Kindergarten, Nancy Vibert Kindergarten, Rodney Neighbourhood Steiner Kindergarten and Tatura Children’s Centre, have each demonstrated exceptional dedication to the program.

Goulburn Valley Public Health Unit Health Promotion Officer Indee Muthuarachchi said these services have gone “above and beyond to promote healthy habits through play-based education, healthy eating policies, and community engagement.”

“Early learning centres play a critical role in establishing the foundations for lifelong oral health,” he said.

“By embedding oral health promotion into their everyday practices, these centres are helping children and their families develop the skills and habits that lead to better health outcomes later in life.”

The program supports early childhood educators to engage children with simple and consistent oral health messages, such as encouraging drinking tap water over sugary drinks and brushing teeth twice a day.

GV Health congratulated the awarded services for their exemplary efforts in fostering a healthier future for local children.

GV Health’s Health Promotion Officers Alicia Minotti and Ann John were instrumental during last year in securing the Smiles 4 Miles awards, with ongoing contributions from Phillipa Jones.

“These awards are a reflection of the passion and dedication of educators across our region,” Mr Muthuarachchi said.

“We’re proud to work alongside such committed services to support better health in our communities.”