Music as a Bridge for Communication and Connection

In Sydney's south-west, Liverpool Neighbourhood Connections (LNC) has spent decades supporting local families through community-based programs that foster connection, inclusion and belonging. Based in one of Australia's most culturally diverse regions, LNC delivers programs that respond to the needs of families from a wide range of cultural, linguistic and social backgrounds.

Within the Liverpool Local Government Area, LNC facilitates playgroups across seven locations, creating welcoming spaces where children and caregivers can connect, learn and access support close to home. A significant majority of families attending these programs come from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, with around 95 per cent speaking a language other than English at home.

For the past six years, one partnership has become a valued and consistent part of that support network: Sing&Grow.

What began as a program at LNC's Warwick Farm playgroup has since expanded across the organisation's broader playgroup network, embedding targeted music therapy into existing community playgroup settings and creating benefits for children, families and educators alike.

"The program has supported parents and carers to engage confidently with their children, reduced social isolation and created opportunities for families to connect with each other and community services," said Sarina Torrelli, Community Connections Manager.

Sarina describes one of the partnership's most distinctive strengths has been the way Sing&Grow has become embedded within LNC's existing playgroup model. Rather than ending when the sessions conclude, the songs, activities and strategies continue to be used by educators across all seven locations.

"I don't think there is a day in playgroup that I haven't played or sung a song from Sing&Grow," she shared.

The impact has extended beyond participating families, building the confidence and capability of playgroup staff to use music intentionally to support engagement, participation and child development. Through ongoing collaboration with music therapists, educators have gained practical tools that remain part of everyday playgroup delivery.

The partnership has also provided valuable support for children who may have developmental or emotional needs. One family recalled a child who initially struggled to participate in group activities but, through the welcoming and predictable nature of the sessions, gradually became an active and enthusiastic participant, giving her mother renewed confidence and connection.

For LNC, the success of the partnership lies in its ability to engage families from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds in ways that feel accessible, welcoming and enjoyable.

"Ninety-five per cent of our families come from non-English speaking backgrounds, and the program has helped our families immensely," Sarina said.

"The music therapists are truly amazing, and we are so thankful for the positive impact the program has had on our community."

Six years on, Sing&Grow continues to be more than a program within LNC's playgroups. It has become a trusted and lasting part of how the organisation supports children, families and educators, using music as a universal language for learning, connection and belonging.