We often tell families about the importance and outcomes of play. However we often think negatively about Superhero play, we re-direct and ask children, in so many words, to engage in what we see as “real” play. But have you ever seriously considered and reflected on the importance and significance of children’s Superhero play? I have fond … [Read more...]
What messages do your meal times send children?
Picture this... Sophie is 4 years old. She is asked to sit at the table for lunch… it is tuna bake today. Sophie really dislikes tuna and they never eat it at home… as Dad dislikes it too! Sophie is best friends with Ava and they love to chat over lunch, however they are always placed at different tables because they talk too much. Sophie … [Read more...]
Separation Anxiety may be just around the corner!
As we wind down in preparation for end of year.... some of us may anticipate what the beginning of 2018 holds for children and families new to our services or even changing rooms and educators. Entering into a new child care arrangement can be an emotional experience for both parent and child. However, careful planning, and the knowledge that … [Read more...]
Supporting Literacy
Supporting Literacy development 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 … [Read more...]
Fostering a “Sense of Agency”
So what does “sense of agency” actually mean? Children spend considerable time in child care environments where they experience an array of experiences, resources and relationships, all of which influence their sense of self, how their view themselves and others and they respond to their environment. How we, as educators view the child will … [Read more...]
Social Sustainability in Early Childhood – are you happy?
We talk a lot about "sustainability" in our early childhood settings and I think for the most part we are doing environmental sustainability well. However we often focus so much on this and fail to discuss "social sustainability". Social Sustainability is probably the least defined and least understood of all the different ways of approaching … [Read more...]
Resilience… where has it gone?
"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...]
Sustainability Day 19- Animal Care
I would have to say, like most of us, most children love animals and while many may have pets at home, I do believe that animals can play a very significant role in child care settings. Having an animal in your service provides children with the opportunities to experience animal care including feeding, providing comfort, cleaning and hygiene … [Read more...]
Sustainability Day 5- Loving Nature!
We often jump into "sustainability" activities such as recycling, turning off lights, scrap bowls etc. and expect both our educators, children and even families to follow suit! However what i have discovered (with most things) if people do not understand why they are doing what they are doing... OR they do not have a healthy, authentic … [Read more...]
Getting Sustainability Right – 24 days of ideas!
When we "talk sustainability" we often think recycling, composting & veggie gardens... however it is so much more! While sure... teaching children how to recycle is an most important aspect of  environmental sustainability but there are so many more.... including social sustainability! When i think "sustainability" I think … [Read more...]