Unstructured play materials refer to those play materials whose uses are not predetermined by educators. Also known as of heuristic play materials, the scope for play with unstructured materials is thus unlimited, allowing children to develop agency, skills and imagination. The following article provides information on what types of unstructured play materials can be included, how to store play materials and how to facilitate children's play. 

Belonging, Being and Becoming: The EYLF lists ‘High Expectations’ as one of five Principles that underpin practice. This is based on the premise that all children come with the potential to learn and unique sets of abilities which can be best realized when educators consistently have high expectations for them. The following article provides strategies on how Educators achieve best practices so that each child can realise their potential.

Even for the most accomplished of new graduates, the transition from educational to professional context can be challenging. Not only is the new educator thrust into the hurly-burly of everyday teaching, but is expected to adjust to an entirely unfamiliar ecosystem of the service. If you are facing a similar prospect, here are a few strategies for a new educator starting in early childhood services, to help you give your professional best.

Early childhood services are among the most demanding professional situations. Being responsible for the care and learning of toddlers and young children often leaves caregivers and educators vulnerable to highly physically and emotionally stressful moments over the day. If you find yourself often struggling to cope, here are some tips on managing stressful moments.

From the earliest months of life, babies thrive when given opportunities to experience the outdoors. Nature is not just a backdrop for play—it is a living classroom that nurtures physical strength, sensory exploration, emotional growth, and a deep sense of connection to the world. Outdoor play allows babies to move freely, discover textures, sounds, and sights, and begin forming bonds with their environment and the people around them.

For educators and families, planning outdoor play is about more than simply “taking babies outside.” It involves creating safe, stimulating spaces where babies can grasp, crawl, listen, and wonder. By offering open-ended materials, natural objects, and opportunities for social interaction, adults can scaffold experiences that support babies’ holistic development.

This guide explores outdoor play through the lens of Belonging, Being and Becoming—three dimensions that highlight how babies grow physically, emotionally, and socially in nature. Alongside practical strategies and safety considerations, it provides inspiration for educators and caregivers to design meaningful outdoor experiences that foster joy, resilience, and a lifelong respect for the environment.

Floorbook is a documentation approach that uses a large book with blank pages for children to record different aspects of their learning in small groups or as a whole group. The following article provides information on the Features Of A Floorbook, Child Centred Approach, How Educators Can Use Floorbooks and more. 

For ECT's working in early childhood services, they are on the Educational Services Teachers Award and there are 5 Classification Levels which determines their rate of pay.  

Within an early childhood setting, throughout the day, children experience many transitions such as transitions that occur between activities or routines. The following article provides information on Transitions Between Activities, Supporting Transitions Between Activities, Transition Songs and Chants and more. 

In Norway and most other Scandinavian countries, children nap in the outdoors. According, to research outdoor sleeping not only promotes better daytime sleeping, but it also increases the duration of sleep. With Australia's serene climate, it's a great way for services to explore outdoor sleeping.

On 26 January we celebrate Australia Day. A day to reflect on what we have achieved and what we can be proud of in our great nation. However, for Aboriginal Australians, it's a day of sorrow and loss. A clear reminder of their loss of freedom, loss of family, loss of culture - January 26 for Aboriginal Australians mourn the day by calling it Invasion Day.