Children are not passive recipients of care. From birth, they express preferences, make decisions, and influence their world. In early childhood education, agency is both a right and a developmental necessity. EYLF positions the agency as central to Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity- specifically Outcome 1. 2: Children develop their emerging autonomy, interdependence, resilience, and sense of agency.

When educators intentionally design environments, routines, and interactions that honour children’s choices and efforts, agency becomes visible, meaningful, and empowering.

Discover how to nurture children’s agency across babies, toddlers, and preschoolers with practical strategies, autonomy‑supportive language, and EYLF‑aligned documentation tips for early childhood educators.