Celebrating Diwali with toddlers and preschoolers in early childhood settings is a joyful opportunity to foster cultural awareness, sensory exploration, and inclusive belonging. Here are some developmentally appropriate, emotionally intelligent ideas to celebrate Diwali with toddlers and preschoolers.
Here’s a set of open-ended observation starters for mealtimes and nutrition, designed to support authentic child voice, trauma-informed practice, and emotionally intelligent documentation. These can be used across age groups and settings—from infants exploring textures to preschoolers engaging in cultural conversations around food.
Outcome 2 of the EYLF—Children are connected with and contribute to their world—reminds us that belonging is not just about being present but about feeling valued, included, and empowered to make a difference. The following article translates the outcome into simplified language to support educators in recognising and documenting moments of empathy, cooperation, and community-building.
On November 5th, 2025, the ECEC Leadership Research Symposium, hosted online by Charles Sturt University and OMEP Australia, invites educators, researchers, and sector leaders to explore the evolving landscape of leadership in early childhood settings.
Approximately 40 Victorian educators have had their Working with Children Checks revoked despite previously being banned from early childhood settings.
A: As the end of the preschool year approaches, preschool educators begin preparing for graduation ceremonies—complete with miniature caps, choreographed performances, and proud photo ops. While these events can be joyful and affirming, they also invite deeper reflection. Is a formal graduation truly necessary in early childhood education? Or are there more developmentally appropriate, emotionally intelligent ways to honour children’s growth? This question opens space for reimagining what transition rituals could look like—and who they’re really for.
A child’s sense of identity is the foundation for all learning, relationships, and wellbeing. Outcome 1 of the EYLF Children have a strong sense of identity reminds us that when children feel safe, seen, and valued, they begin to explore who they are and how they belong. The following article translates the outcome into simplified language to support educators in recognising identity-building moments, responding with emotional intelligence, and documenting children’s growth in ways that are meaningful for families and respectful of each child’s unique story.
Observation starter prompts invite educators to notice deeply, listen generously, and document with emotional intelligence. This article offers themed prompts across routines and play contexts, enabling educators to write about children's experiences without assumptions or judgment.
Creating open-ended observations in early childhood settings is all about capturing the richness of a child’s experience without judgment, assumptions, or leading interpretations. These observations invite reflection, celebrate authentic voice, and support responsive planning. The following article is a guide to help you craft them effectively.
Education Ministers have made safeguarding practices a national priority. As part of this, they’ve asked ACECQA to conduct a rapid assessment of how educator-to-child ratios are being applied in practice under the National Quality Framework.
In a landmark move to enhance oversight and accountability across Australia’s early childhood education and care sector, Education Ministers have commissioned ACECQA to develop a New National Educator Register. This foundational digital system will provide regulators with clearer visibility of who is working in the sector and where—supporting safer, more transparent practices for children, families, and providers.
