Articles

Children thrive when they can do—exploring, tinkering, and experimenting. Science activities in OSHC settings not only engage curious minds but also build teamwork, problem‑solving, and resilience. Best of all, many experiments can be done with everyday materials, keeping costs low…

In OSHC, language plays a powerful role in shaping the culture of the environment. Inappropriate language and swearing can undermine respect, safety, and inclusivity. Educators often face the challenge of balancing children’s freedom of expression with the need to maintain…

Children need safe and positive environments to learn and grow. To ensure this, services and educators need to ensure effective supervision at all times. The following article provides information on the different aspects of supervision, ranging from regulatory requirements and…

Educators are constantly seeking ways to make children’s learning visible—not only for compliance and documentation, but also to celebrate achievements, strengthen family partnerships, and empower children to reflect on their own growth. One powerful approach is the “Our Learning Journey”…

Positive phrases play a crucial role in children's growth because they help nurture their emotional, social, and cognitive development. The following article lists 30 positive phrases that educators should say to children.

Teaching kindness helps children develop important social skills, such as cooperation, sharing, and effective communication. The following article provides information on Why Is It Important To Teach Kindness To Young Children,How To Teach Kindness To Toddlers and Preschoolers, Practical Acts…

Have You Filled A Bucket Today is a free story that children can download and read. This story talks to young children about being kind using a simple analogy to teach young children about kindness. Everybody has invisible buckets from…

The home corner is more than a play space—it’s a mirror of children’s lived experiences and a stage for imagination, identity, and social learning. By re-enacting routines, caring for “family members,” and experimenting with roles, children build empathy, language, and…

A RAP, or Reconciliation Action Plan, is a formal framework designed to promote reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. It outlines practical actions to foster respectful relationships, create opportunities, and celebrate the rich cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander…

Embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives is not a themed week or a token gesture; it’s a commitment to truth-telling, respect, and inclusion woven through everyday practice. Done well, it strengthens children’s sense of belonging and deepens their connection…

Sensory bottles are simple yet powerful tools for children’s play, regulation, and learning. They are clear containers (usually plastic bottles or jars) filled with materials that stimulate the senses—sight, sound, and touch.

Recent headlines have sounded alarms about the sharp rise in “serious incidents” reported in Australian childcare services. At first glance, the numbers appear troubling: more breaches of national guidelines, more incidents logged, and a decline in staff qualifications. Yet to…