Childcare Programming

Outcome 3 of the EYLF, Children have a strong sense of well-being, which reminds us that physical health and emotional safety are deeply connected. In early childhood, well-being is expressed through movement, rest, nutrition, emotional regulation, and trusting relationships. The…

Halloween is more than costumes and candy; it's a cultural moment that invites play, storytelling, and community connection. But beneath the surface, it also offers a rich opportunity for reflection. What are we celebrating, and how does it shape our…

In the rhythm of early childhood education, weekly programs often become the heartbeat of practice—a steady pulse of planned experiences, observations, and reflections. But what transforms a weekly plan from “meeting expectations” to “exceeding standards”? The answer lies not in…

In early childhood education, the most powerful tools aren’t found in policy binders or compliance checklists—they’re embedded in the emotional fabric of our relationships. Emotional intelligence isn’t a soft skill; it’s a pedagogical framework. It shapes how we teach, how…

Documentation is more than a compliance task; it’s a powerful tool for reflection, connection, and responsive programming. Yet with the increasing demands on educators’ time, it’s vital to reaffirm a core principle: educators are trusted professionals, capable of discerning which…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Effective pedagogical strategies in early childhood education are grounded in developmental theory, child agency, and emotionally intelligent practice. Here’s an overview of the most impactful approaches currently shaping high-quality early learning. The following article provides information on: Core Pedagogical Strategies…

Organising and documenting critical reflections in early childhood services isn’t just about meeting NQS Element 1.3.2—it’s about embedding a culture of inquiry, emotional safety, and continuous improvement. Here’s a curated set of practical, emotionally intelligent, and sector-aligned ideas to help…