An initiative of Early Childhood Australia, Early Learning Matters Week brings together early childhood educators, parents, carers and community leaders to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of early learning and the difference it makes to children’s learning, development and wellbeing.
This year’s theme, 'Learning Through Connection', invites childcare centres and kindergartens to consider and share the ways that ‘connection’ supports children’s learning.
This year’s theme, 'Learning Through Connection', invites childcare centres and kindergartens to consider and share the ways that ‘connection’ supports children’s learning.
There are currently more than 1.3 million young children across Australia attending early childhood education and care services. Research shows that children who participate in high quality early childhood programs are more likely to arrive at primary school equipped with the social, cognitive and emotional skills they need to help them prepare for primary school and beyond.
Play-based learning is one of the most powerful ways to support children’s development. These benefits last well into the school years and beyond. The benefits are even greater for children who are in vulnerable circumstances. Early childhood education plays a key role in remediating disadvantage, providing children with support, attention, socialisation and nutrition that may be scarce or unavailable at home.
Early childhood education and care services are a crucial part of children's formative years. They support children to become confident, enthusiastic learners, building a foundation for wellbeing and accomplishment throughout their lives. This is achieved by providing play-based learning environments which encourage the development of skills, provide challenges, and instill a lifelong love of learning.
Play allows children the chance to emulate what they see and practice skills. It gives them an outlet for creativity and experimentation, and helps them learn how to interact and communicate with others. While it is often described as ‘children’s work’, it is intensely enjoyable for them.
Playing is just as important for adults, too. Among its many benefits, adult play can boost your creativity, sharpen your sense of humor, and help you cope better with stress.
Playing is just as important for adults, too. Among its many benefits, adult play can boost your creativity, sharpen your sense of humor, and help you cope better with stress.
So, what are you waiting for? Embrace your inner child, get your family together, and start playing!
If you would like to learn more or get involved in this very important week, please visit the Early Learning Matters website - https://www.earlylearningmatters.org.au/
info@tridentearlylearning.com.au