Morning group time sets the tone for the day in early childhood settings. For children aged 3–5, this is a golden opportunity to build belonging, strengthen language, nurture rhythm, and ease transitions into play and learning. A well‑designed group time moves calmly from centering rituals into energising activities, balancing structure with child‑led moments. Below are engaging strategies and examples that educators can adapt to their own classrooms, ensuring mornings feel joyful, connected, and purposeful.

In early childhood settings, emotional literacy is foundational to well-being, learning, and relationships. The free printable Feeling Check-In posters featuring clear visuals, child-friendly language, and actionable strategies offer educators a powerful way to support children in identifying, expressing, and managing their emotions. Whether used during transitions, check-ins, or moments of dysregulation, these posters help embed emotional intelligence into daily practice.

Dinosaurs have always captured the imagination of children, making them the perfect theme for engaging classroom activities. This cut-and-paste puzzle printable combines fun with purposeful learning, offering educators a resource that supports fine motor development, problem-solving, and creativity all while aligning with the EYLF outcomes.

Remembrance Day, observed on 11 November, honours those who served and sacrificed in war and peacekeeping efforts. While the concept of war may be too complex for toddlers and preschoolers, educators and families can introduce the day through gentle, symbolic, and emotionally resonant experiences.

The following is a collection of science-themed “potion recipes” that blend sensory exploration, symbolic meaning, and safe chemical reactions—perfect for World Science Day or any inquiry-based learning moment.  Each potion includes: A symbolic name (linked to emotional literacy or global values), a child-safe recipe using common ingredients, and a meaningful intention to spark reflection and storytelling.

Each year on November 10, World Science Day for Peace and Development invites us to reflect on the role of science in building a more inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable world. In early childhood settings, this global observance becomes a beautiful opportunity to nurture curiosity, empathy, and collaborative inquiry. 

Shapes are everywhere, in the food we eat, the toys we play with, and the stories we tell. For young children, learning shapes isn’t just about geometry; it’s about noticing patterns, building vocabulary, and connecting with the world around them. These simple, rhythmic rhymes make shape learning fun, memorable, and emotionally engaging.

In early childhood education, stories are more than entertainment; they’re vessels of culture, emotion, and connection. Aboriginal children’s books that explore water, wind, and nature offer rich opportunities to embed Indigenous perspectives, foster environmental awareness, and support holistic development. When paired with the 8 Aboriginal Ways of Learning and the EYLF, these stories become powerful tools for relational, symbolic, and experiential learning.

Play isn’t just fun—it’s foundational. For children aged 3 to 5, games offer rich opportunities to build social skills, emotional regulation, motor coordination, and early literacy and numeracy. Whether you're refreshing your weekly program or designing a themed experience, here are some educator-approved game ideas that blend creativity, inclusion, and developmental intent.

The following setups and experiences are designed to foster fine motor skills, pattern recognition, and joyful engagement with the traditions of the Festival of Lights. Each activity offers opportunities for children to express themselves, explore symbolism, and co-create meaning in inclusive and developmentally appropriate ways.