Located less than 3 kilometers from Windy Hill and complete with an aeroplane in the playground, Villa Bambini Essendon North recently served as the perfect backdrop for a Bomber Kids session.
Launched earlier this year, Essendon Football Club’s Early Learning program Bomber Kids focuses on physical activity, participation and school readiness, whilst teaching the importance of communication, language and social and emotional development.
“The children absolutely loved taking part in the Bomber Kids session,” says Villa Bambini assistant director Katelyn Bellizzi. “From the moment it began, they were fully engaged, showing enthusiasm, energy, and a genuine love for movement.”
Across the session children learnt the story behind the club’s 2025 Indigenous guernsey, took part in an obstacle course challenge, and learnt football skills including handball, marking and kicking.
From Moonee Ponds to Macedon, the program has been out and about delivering sessions for kindergartens, playgroups and Early Learning Centres.
More than simply a footy clinic, the program, carefully designed to align to the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), delivers meaningful developmental benefits, playing a vital role in early childhood education.
“Sports visits such as the Bomber Kids program help to support the children that attend our service through encouraging them to build self-confidence as they try new physical challenges, develop independence and resilience by participating in unfamiliar environments and feel a sense of belonging as part of a team or group. Aswell as this, it supports their physical wellbeing through gross motor development, coordination, and physical activity,” says Bellizzi.
As a special incentive, children were invited into the Guard Of Honour for the Round 9 Clash against Sydney at Marvel Stadium. “The feedback from families was overwhelmingly positive, and the win on the day made the experience even more unforgettable,” says Bellizzi.
Bomber Kids is now taking bookings for Terms 2 and 3. Click here to express your interest in having Bomber Kids visit your kindergarten, playgroup or Early learning Centre.
