In a time where projects, curriculum webs and planning for children's interests consumes much of our planning time and conversations I often have educators ask "but how do we do this for the under 2's?" We often say.. "planning for the under 2's is the same as older ages... we still follow their interests and needs"... but for the most part this … [Read more...]
Should we turn the screens OFF?
We all know that regular physical activity is important for health and well-being. As educators we ensure our curriculum and environment promote and support physical activity whether it be through free play, games, yoga, Munch & Move programs and so on, so why has research over the last decade shown that screen time (such as TV, DVDs and games … [Read more...]
International Mud Day…. I am confused!
During a recent PD session an educator informed the group that on the 29th June it is International Mud Day. At first I was excited and thought how fantastic this was... a great opportunity to raise awareness with educators, families and children alike about the benefits of messy play... but then as the day went on my opinion changed and I now … [Read more...]
Significant role of the Educator. Could you do this?
Have you ever wondered what a career in Early Childhood Education would be like? Working with young children is so much more than “having fun” and while play is an important part of a child’s day, their learning and understanding of their world, our role as an educator is quite significant. When we consider that the first 5 years of a child life … [Read more...]
Attachment, Security & Well-Being
It is troubling to constantly hear educators share their concerns about children's behaviour, separation anxieties and lack of confidence to take risks or engage with others in play. When these concerns are explored further it becomes evident that children are experiencing various levels of anxiety and it appears to be increasing. There are many … [Read more...]
“Being” Outside…. so much more that outdoor play!
It was only just yesterday my daughter and I quietly sat outside in the afternoon sun and watched fine cobwebs sway in the breeze and small insects buzz about us. We had just finished throwing the ball for our dog and picked new lemons off the lemon tree. Â As we sat I made the comment "I love this time of day" and my daughter responded "i just love … [Read more...]
Let’s bring back “old school” play!
As I sit outside on a Sunday afternoon, blue sky and sun on my back I find myself engrossed in my daughter's play. She is dressed in a fairy dress-up costume and completely engaged in her outdoor imaginative play... with her 2 silkie chickens... "Cinderella" and "Mermaid". She has had these since she was 2 years old and now 9 she still tends to … [Read more...]
Children as “Risk Assessors”
A recent conversation with one of my students, Justine, got me thinking! As we talked about allowing children to take risks in their play as well as opportunities to make decisions about their play, this led us on to talk about could children be part of "risk assessment" in our services? Justine shared with me a strategy she used in one of … [Read more...]
Saying Sorry- Yes or No?
In my role as a consultant and training provider many services and educators are surprised at times when I do not suggest to a child to say "sorry". While i do value manners and taking responsibility for ones actions, I feel that "saying sorry" is for most of the time not authentic. Saying sorry for young children can be an automatic response. … [Read more...]
The Common Cold
We are getting close to that time of year when children are coming into our services with coughs, runny noses and medication! According to the Children's Youth and Women's Health Service, children get around 6-10 colds per year, with the highest number usually being during the first two years in child care, kindergarten or school. There are … [Read more...]