Early learning child development blog

Early childhood educators sharing their knowledge and expertise with families during Covid19   There is no correct answer for supporting families and educators during the Covid19 pandemic. No textbook ever written has prepared us for this situation. It is more important now, more than ever, to support each other during this pandemic in the best way that we can. In my opinion, the best way to support our families and educators, is by sharing our knowledge and expertise for children, and doing what is in the best interests of the children that we care for and educate. We’re all aware...

How early childhood educators and teachers  can support preschoolers during Covid19   We’re all feeling the pressure at the moment to: ‘homeschool’ our children; develop remote learning packs for preschoolers; continue the kindergarten curriculum in the home; provide flexible learning plans for families in self-isolation; provide a safe learning environment for children with families who are ‘essential workers’. The pressure is overwhelming and stressful, and has had an impact on all educators, teachers, leadership teams, families, and children. In my opinion as an allied health professional I believe that the most important task for us to undertake at the moment...

Are we expecting too much from our preschoolers?   I write this blog article as a frustrated kinder mum, and now a confused, child development therapist.   If I had of written this blog article last year, I would have shared my excitement about getting children ready for school, by improving their: Gross motor skills Fine motor skills Ability to maintain focus Ability to follow instructions Letter recognition Counting 10 objects   I still agree with the importance of development children's gross motor skills, fine motor skills, ability to focus and follow instructions. However, now, as a kinder mum, I feel confused...

A letter to the teacher who feels like they're just not getting anywhere with their students.   I see you every morning, pacing your classroom before school has even started.   You're reading the role of your students, and you're already worrying about whether Jack is going to have another meltdown, whether you have made enough progress with Sam, and whether Elizabeth will put her hand up during circle time AGAIN today.   Your heart is racing as you wait for the day to start. You're looking around to anyone who can help to ease your worries, and calm your...

Early childhood education - building connection with children is key I recently saw a photo of my primary school admin lady's face on Instagram, and I cried.   Now I know that sounds really random. But my primary school admin lady, was the only person, who took the time to smile at me, and say good morning to me, every weekday of my early education life.   Some of my primary school teachers acknowledged my existence every day, but to be honest most of my primary school teachers struggled to connect with me.   There were reasons for that.  ...