How should I respond when a child says ‘I don’t want that one, that’s for girls/boys’?
Answer: With curiosity. Questions like this are a great opportunity for reflection; not just for the children, but also for educators. The EYLF states that ‘childhood is a time to […]
What can I do if the school is thinking of outsourcing OSHC?
Answer: Seek to be informed. Aim to collaborate. As a coordinator, learning that your school is considering outsourcing the outside school hours care (OSHC) service brings a range of emotions […]
Should children wear high-vis vests on excursions?
Answer: It depends on your ‘why’. Many educators feel more comfortable using high-vis on excursions, and that’s okay. But when it comes to child safety, vests are only one tiny […]
Is it ok to use teepees, or is this cultural appropriation?
Answer: It depends. Like every other decision we make in early childhood education and care, choosing whether it is right to use a tepee in your setting depends on what […]
Is it wrong for educators to use the word ‘kids’?
Answer: Choose professional language to foster a culture of respect. Children use the word ‘kids’ when they talk about ‘other kids’, and adults use it when talking about ‘their kids’, […]
A lot of children are refusing to eat the main meal at our service. What should we do?
Educators are requesting sandwiches be prepared for them instead. How can we create a menu where all children are at least eating some of the main meals? Answer: There are […]
Are progressive meal times a good idea? How do we know if it’s right for our service?
Answer: Start small to see if it works for you. Whatever your service type, progressive meals are a wonderful way for children to have more choice and freedom in the […]
What can I do to support a very tired team?
I’ve only just taken up the educational leader role and it’s going to be an uphill climb for everyone as morale is extremely low. Answer: Focus on meaningful relationships. During […]
How can we ensure our QIP is a living document?
How can we ensure our QIP allows all educators to regularly contribute and stay up to date with our overall goals? Answer: Switch up your approach. Focus less on people […]
Some parents request that their babies are left to cry in the cot without comfort (cry it out).
What should we do? How should we go about caring for these babies and others using similar sleep training methods? Answer: Work in partnership with the family. Spend some time […]