We are fast approaching that time of year when we feel the need to cover every wall with Christmas decorations and every art experience has a Christmas theme! However I strongly suggest that you stop the urge to do this and instead, like any celebration or interest shown by children, open up vigorous discussion about what this time of year means … [Read more...]
Resilience…supporting children & families
"Children just aren't resilient these days" is a common statement I hear a lot lately.... and it makes me wonder... Considering that some children will naturally be more resilient than others because of their temperament and genetics... (these are those children who can get on with it even after disappointment). However what about those children … [Read more...]
A qualification is important… BUT being “employable” is MORE important!
Educators can have a long and lasting effect on a young child’s life and ideally we want these early impressions to inspire, challenge and foster a positive well-being for these young children. While there are abundant training providers and programs available for prospective and experienced educators the quality of the education and training … [Read more...]
The Power of “Loose Parts Play”
Did you know there is a theory about "loose parts play"? First proposed by architect Simon Nicholson in the 1970's, the theory of loose parts play has begun to influence early childhood educators and the people who design play spaces for children quite significantly. Nicholson believed that it is the 'loose parts' in our environment that … [Read more...]
Have you got what it takes to be an Educator?
Being an Early Childhood Educator is serious business! I become frustrated by those who say this career is "easy" or "fun" or "we just play all day".... while yes... we do engage in play and yes it should be fun and enjoyable... however I take this role a little more seriously! Supporting, nurturing and scaffolding children's development in the … [Read more...]
Supporting Protective Behaviours in Young Children
According to Australian Government (FAHCSIA) “Protective behaviours’ refers to a proactive and empowering set of preventative and adaptable living skills that enable people to develop workable strategies to better help them preserve their physical and emotional safety in unsafe, or potentially unsafe situations” Consider this statement in the … [Read more...]
Supporting Literacy in young children
From birth children are developing the knowledge and skills that are important foundations for later literacy development, even though it may be some time before they will develop the skills to read, write and verbally communicate in the conventional way. As educators we need to support the development of children’s emerging literacy skills through … [Read more...]
Behaviour – it’s just communication!
Children’s behaviour …. One of the world’s most interesting phenomenon. It has been researched for decades and many ‘causes’ have been identified, parenting styles have changed however more and more children are displaying ‘challenging behaviours’ which require medical attention and/or support. But have we got it wrong? Are we looking at … [Read more...]
Becoming a Critical Reflector
We all “reflect” in various ways such as in our children’s portfolios and documentation, daily curriculum reflections, staff meetings, staff appraisals… National Quality Standard, Quality Area 1.2.3 states critical reflection on children's learning and development, both as individuals and in groups, is regularly used to implement the program. … [Read more...]
COURSE SPECIAL: Early Childhood Education
Being an Early Childhood Educator is one of the most rewarding, challenging, exciting and inspiring careers. You are responsible for the most critical years of development including attachment, morals and values as well as identity. Working in partnership with families to not only care for and nurture their children, but to provide an environment … [Read more...]